2015-2016

Handbook
For
Parents and Students

Mission Statement
Saint Thomas More Collegiate, as a Catholic school
with Saint Thomas More and Blessed Edmund Ignatius
Rice as our role models, endeavors to form a welcoming
Christian community, recognizing and respecting the
value of each individual, leading all to grow toward
their full potential in their faith, knowledge, and love.

Vision Statement
For Every Knight to Make a Positive Contribution to
the Earth and its People.
 Contents
Our Mission Statement
Vision Statement
Bell Schedules
Plan of School
Historical Background
St Thomas More ................................................................. P-2
The Blessed Edmund Ignatius Rice ................................. P-2
The Christian Brothers
The Congregation of Christian Brothers ......................... P-3
Essential Elements of
A Christian Brother Education ......................................... P-3
The School
History of the School......................................................... P-4
The Principals of St Thomas More Collegiate................. P-4
Introduction to St Thomas More Collegiate .................... P-4
The School Badge ............................................................. P-5
Structure of Governance................................................... P-6
STMC Foundation..P-6 Attendance/Lateness ...................................................... P-23
STMC Advancement Office.P-6 Special Education Admissions Policy........................... P-24
System of School Communication .................................. P-6
Student and Family Commitment to STMC ..................... P-7
Tuition Fees/Policy ............................................................ P-7
Academic Program
Calendar and Schedule ..................................................... P-8
Academic Reporting .......................................................... P-8
How to Get Organized ....................................................... P-9
Academic Requirements (Grades 8-9)...P-10
Academic Requirements (Grades 10-12) .......................P-11
Counselling
Personal Counselling -------------------------------------------- P-12
Academic Counselling ------------------------------------------- P-12
Grade 8-9 Courses
Career and Health Education (Grades 8-9).................... P-13
Planning 10....................................................................... P-13
Religion............................................................................. P-13
English .............................................................................. P-15
Social Studies .................................................................. P-15
Science ............................................................................. P-15
Mathematics ..................................................................... P-16
Languages ........................................................................ P-16
Physical Education .......................................................... P-16
Applied Skills ................................................................... P-16
Fine Arts ........................................................................... P-17
Front Page
Front Page
P-38
P-39
Discipline
Discipline Policy..P-19
Code of Conduct.............................................................. P-19
Harrasssment.......P-19
Disciplinary Steps...P-19
Procedures for Complaints / Problems /
Difficulties ........................................................................ P-19
Creating a Climate of Responsibility ------------------------ P-20
School Policies
Homework ........................................................................ P-20
Missed Test ...................................................................... P-20
Cheating ........................................................................... P-21
Exam ................................................................................. P-21
Dress Code....................................................................... P-22
Policy for Challenge and Equivalency Credits ............. P-24
Field Trips ........................................................................ P-24
School Closures .............................................................. P-24
Emergency Procedures ................................................ P-25
Prohibited Items .............................................................. P-25
Illegal Drugs ..................................................................... P-25
Smoking ........................................................................... P-25
Social Media and PED Policies........................................P-26
Suspension and Expulsion............................................. P-26
Appeals
Appeals Policies .............................................................. P-26
Appeals Committee...........................................................P-27
General Information
Using Transit.................................................................... P-28
Athletics and Extracurricular
Sports ............................................................................... P-29
Clubs................................................................................. P-31
Night of Knights...P-33
Athletic Policies
Athletic Policy Objective...................................................P-34
Mission Statement.............................................................P-34
Policies and Procedures...................................................P-35
Code of Conduct................................................................P-36
Saint Thomas More Collegiate
Saint Thomas More
(1478-1535)
Saint Thomas More can be justifiably described as one of
the true heroes of English history and a leader of the early
Renaissance. His literary works included Utopia, The Four
Last Things, and Dialogue of Comfort Against Tribulation,
while his professional life included, among others, the public
offices of Member of Parliament, High Steward of Oxford and
Cambridge Universities, and, from 1529-1532, Chancellor of
England. To the personal brilliance and industry which
enabled Saint Thomas More to lead such a productive life
were joined the qualities of a loving father and husband. These
personal qualities were called upon by Thomas More toward
the end of his life when he chose to stand resolutely by his
religious convictions as he defied the king.
In Utopia, Thomas More raised a question that is as
fundamentally important today as it was during the reign of
Henry VIII: should the State rule supreme, or are there moral
laws we should obey, above any laws which the state might
make? More was eventually to answer that question through
the example of his own life. For, after a brilliant literary and
political career under the patronage of Henry VIII, he brought
about his own downfall by refusing to subscribe to the Act of
Supremacy which questioned the Popes authority and made
Henry head of the Church of England. On the scaffold Mores
final words provided the key to his personal philosophy when
he said that he was The Kings good servant, but Gods first.
He was canonized and became Saint Thomas More in 1935 on
the four hundredth anniversary of his death; his official feast
day is June 22.
The students of St. Thomas More Collegiate are indeed
fortunate to have as a patron a man of such civic, personal and
religious qualities. His life exemplified that happy blending of
personal commitment to scholarly and civic pursuits and the
personal virtues that nourish such efforts, a blend crucial to a
Christian gentleman or lady of today.
P-2 Historical Background
The Blessed Edmund
Ignatius Rice (1762-1844)
Founder of the Christian Brothers of Ireland, the first
congregation of men to be founded in Ireland since the time of
St Patrick, Edmund Rice, was born in 1762 at Westcourt in
County Kilkenny, about a mile from the town of Callan. He
was educated first at home, then in a hedge school, and
finally in Kilkenny. Mr. Rice married and became a
prosperous merchant and a leader of Catholic activities in the
City of Waterford.
After the death of his wife, Edmund had intentions of
entering a monastery on the continent, but the Bishop of
Waterford encouraged him to stay in Ireland and begin a
school for the poor boys. Thus, in 1802, Edmund rented a
house, engaged the services of two young men, and opened a
school. Some three hundred boys of all ages flocked to him.
Not accustomed to the routine and discipline of school, they
must have tested the courage of their masters, for the two paid
teachers soon wearied and left Edmund alone. His spirit must
have been sorely tried. However, he persevered, continuing in
prayer, and God rewarded his confidence when two other
young men offered themselves as voluntary helpers in his
enterprise.
The new school effected such a transformation among the
youth of Waterford that Edmund soon had requests to open
schools in other cities. Additional helpers came, and he
organized them to live together and follow a regular rule of
life. New schools were begun.
Pope Pius VII gave papal approval to the Congregation in
1820. Edmund took the name of Brother Ignatius, and, in
1822, Brother Edmund Ignatius Rice was elected the first
Superior General of the new congregation. New schools were
opened in Ireland, and, in 1825, the Holy Founder sent
Brothers to England and then further afield. Worn out by his
extraordinary labors but consoled by Gods manifest blessings,
Brother Edmund Ignatius Rice passed to his eternal reward on
August 29, 1844, at Mount Sion, Waterford.
The life and work of Edmund Ignatius Rice are currently
being examined for the process of canonization. On 6 October
1996, he was beatified, the second step towards Sainthood, and
just as in 1935 Sir Thomas became Saint Thomas More, so in
1996 Brother Edmund Rice became the Blessed Edmund
Ignatius Rice. His official feast day is May 5.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
The Congregation of
Christian Brothers
Today, over two thousand members of the Congregation of
Christian Brothers (Irish Christian Brothers) are those
spiritual sons of the Blessed Edmund Ignatius Rice who are
devoted members of the Congregation founded by him for the
Christian education of youth. The word Christian implies that
they are doing the work of Jesus Christ who began To do and
to teachthe motto of the Brothers, which in Latin is Facere
et docere. As Brothers they are spiritually united, working as
a team, praying and living together.
The Brothers of the Christian Schools of Ireland were
founded for the Christian education of youth in Ireland. The
Congregation, however, soon spread to other countries. After
sending Brothers to England in 1825, schools were opened in
Gibraltar in 1835 and in Australia and India in 1842.
A Christian Brother does not become a priest. He witnesses
to Christ and manifests his dedication by the vows of chastity,
poverty, and obedience by living in community and by the
observance of the Brothers rule. Christian Brothers come
from all walks of life, all nationalities and widely different
backgrounds. As participants in educational ministry of the
Church, the Brothers conduct schools such as Saint Thomas
More Collegiate where they endeavor to proclaim the Gospel
to their students and share in the saving mission of Christ for
their own benefit and that of their pupils.
Essential Elements of an
Edmund Rice Education
Elements
In ministry begun by Jesus and inspired by the vision of
Blessed Edmund Rice, a Christian Brother education.
Evangelizes youth within the mission of the Church.
A Christian Brother education proclaims the Good News of
Jesus Christ.
The Gospel message of Jesus permeates the curriculum, the
activities, and all other aspects of a Christian Brother
education.
Proclaims and witnesses to its Catholic identity.
A Christian Brother education gives priority to religious
formation through formal religious instruction and through
opportunities for faith development and service by means of
liturgies, retreats, vocation awareness, daily prayer, and other
programs.
A Christian Brother education joins in the sacramental life of
the Church, witnesses faith life through the prominent use of
signs and symbols, fosters devotion to Mary, and is in union
with the Church through commitment to service and
formation of community.
Catholic identity permeates all endeavors of Christian
Brother education: all classes and activities, procedures and
policies, services and programs.
All staff involved in Christian Brother education give daily
witness to their integral role in the communitys faith
formation.
P-3 The Christian Brothers
Stands in solidarity with those marginalized by poverty
and injustice.
The policies, the structures, and the climate of a Christian
Brother education witness and promote concern for the
disadvantaged.
A Christian Brother education includes advocacy and
education for peace and justice, care for the earth, and global
awareness. It prepares students to work toward the creation
of a just society.
A Christian Brother education actively encourages ministries
that work with and for the poor and marginalized.
Education and support for mission areas at home and abroad
characterize Christian Brother education.
A Christian Brother education establishes tuition and
scholarship policies that open its education to the poor.
Fosters and invigorates a community of faith.
Christian Brother education witness and celebrates Gospel
values.
A Christian Brother education provides a disciplined, safe
atmosphere in which students are free to grow and take
responsibility for their own learning and for the life of the
community.
Caring, compassionate relationships characterize a Christian
Brother educational community.
Celebrates the value and dignity of each person and
nurtures the development of the whole person.
A Christian Brother education values the diversity of the
human family and seeks to reflect local diversity in its
student population and professional staff.
Strong programs of personal, professional, and pastoral care
are integral to a Christian Brother education.
A Christian Brother education values co-curricular activities,
special events, and other programs that are important to
students complete education.
A Christian Brother education strives to provide just
remuneration for its staff.
Calls for collaboration and shared responsibility in its
mission.
Christian Brother education empowers all members of the
community to share responsibility in the shaping of its
mission.
A Christian Brother Education collaborates with parents, the
primary educators.
A Christian Brother education fosters collaboration on local,
regional, and international levels to address common
concerns and to celebrate a common heritage.
A Christian Brother education encourages a deeper
understanding and living of charism of Blessed Edmund.
A Christian Brother Education promotes active participation
in governance by boards and diocesan officials.
Pursues excellence in all its endeavors.
Strong academic curriculum, high expectations, and a quest
for excellence characterize a Christian Brother education.
A Christian Brother education develops a curriculum that
promotes the harmonious growth of the whole person,
fosters the development of higher-order thinking, and
prepares its students for life-long learning.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
History of the School
In 1957 negotiations began between the Most Rev Martin
M Johnston, D D, Coadjutor Archbishop of Vancouver and
Rev Brother A A Loftus, Provincial Superior of the Christian
Brothers in North America, to secure the Brothers for a new
school in BCs Lower Mainland. By 1960 an agreement had
been reached between the Archdiocese of Vancouver and the
Christian Brothers, a site had been chosen and construction
of a ten room school had been completed. The future Saint
Thomas More Collegiate was to be built in Burnaby, a short
distance from St Louis College, a school in New
Westminster which the Brothers had operated for a short
time some thirty years earlier.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate welcomed its first student
Knights in September 1960. Opening day brought together
three Christian Brothers and 110 Knights enrolled in grades
7, 8 and 9. Over the years enrolment and staff grew as did
the facilities. Major construction was carried out in 1966,
1978, 1981, 1984, and with the introduction of coeducation
in 1998. Today's enrolment stands at about 675 students
both boys and girlsand the school now houses a
gymnasium with changing rooms and weight room, a
cafeteria, a large library, art, drama, and music rooms, a
science wing, computer lab, woodwork shop, and technical
education room, as well as improved washrooms, offices and
counselling center.
Today Saint Thomas More Collegiate (STMC) is a
prominent member of the Catholic and civic educational
communities in the Lower Mainland. This is due not only to
STMCs development of facilities and growth in students
and staff, but more so because there has also been a
corresponding growth in appreciation of the Catholic
educational philosophy which enlightens and sustains the
spiritual, intellectual, social, and athletic facets of a Knights
education. The pioneers indeed built well, and all who have
experienced the spirit of personalism and the challenge of
excellence, hallmarks of a More education, are indebted to
the many people who supported STMC throughout the years.
The Principals of
St Thomas More Collegiate
1960-1966 Br W G McIntyre
1966-1969 Br W C Martin
1969-1970 Br D Frenette
1970-1972 Br R L MacKenzie
1972-1978 Br C H Slattery
1978-1984 Br W R Carrothers
1984-1989 Br K E Short
1989-1997 Br H J ONeill
1997-2000 Br P J OLoughlin
2000-2011 Mr D Hall
2011- Mr M DesLauriers
P-4 The School
Introduction to
St Thomas More Collegiate
The Catholic School aims to create for the school
community an atmosphere enlivened by the Gospel Spirit of
freedom and charity. It aims to help adolescents in such a
way that the development of their personality will be
matched by the growth of the new creation which they
became by Baptism. It strives to relate all human culture
eventually to the news of salvation, so that the light of faith
will illumine the knowledge which students gradually gain
of the world, of life and of mankind.
Since its founding, Saint Thomas More Collegiate has
constantly sought to create that type of Catholic School
Community in which students are challenged to develop
their total personhood: intellectual, physical, social, and
spiritual. It is to the credit of past and present faculties that
notable success has been achieved in this area. This success,
however, is also due to the cooperative relationship which
exists between faculty and parents, and its resulting support
and encouragement of the student. Upon graduation
moreover, the alumni, members of the fourth component of
the school community, continue to be challenged and
enriched through the numerous contacts they have with Saint
Thomas More Collegiate.
The Second Vatican Councils declaration on Education
emphasized that the school enhances the education of the
individual by attempting to develop the spiritual nature of
the student. In order for such spiritual growth to occur, an
authentic Christian spirit, based on the belief that Christ is
present and active in our midst, is encouraged. With this
actualized, the effects of His spiritLove, joy, peace,
patience, kindness, goodness, trustfulness, gentleness and
self-controlform the very atmosphere of Saint Thomas
More Collegiate.
If the students are to experience this authentic Christian
spirit then it becomes critical that it is clearly present among
the faculty. In striving to grow together in mutual respect,
support, and charity, the faculty can develop a truly Catholic
Community within the school. By striving to create a spirit
of acceptance, trust, openness, and friendship amongst
themselves and among the students, the faculty leads the
way in reflecting what it means to belong to the Body of
Christ: the Church. Providing the students with this
opportunity to experience Christ's presence in the school,
should be paramount in the minds of the faculty.
The students, then, by enrolling at Saint Thomas More
Collegiate enter into much more than a relationship whereby
they are offered the opportunity to learn. This is indeed
necessary and present, but they expect and receive much
more. They become members of a Catholic school
community consisting of students, faculty, parents and
alumni. This is a community which remains true to itself and
the students, moreover, by providing a milieu which
encourages them to recognize, through faith, the riches of
God's love, and guides them, through example, to respond to
that love. In so doing, Saint Thomas More Collegiate helps
to ensure the students abundant blessings for now and the
future.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
The School Badge
Thomas More (1478-1535), a Knight Baronet, after
whom the school was named, was Lord Chancellor of
England from 1529 until his resignation in 1532. As a
Knight Baronet, a hereditary title lower than Lord but higher
than the non-hereditary Knight Bachelor, he was called Sir
Thomas. The Lord Chancellor was the leader of the
government, roughly equivalent to the present day Prime
Minister, and second in power to the King. The most
famous picture of Sir Thomas shows him wearing his great
chain of office which features the Tudor Rose, fused by
Henry VII from the red and white roses of York and
Lancaster to symbolize the union of the two houses at the
end of the War of the Roses.
The students of the school and the many sports teams are
referred to as Knights in honor of the title held by Sir
Thomas, while many major items in the life of the school,
such as the Yearbook, Basketball Tournaments, the Music
Festival, the Track Meet, and the leader of the Student
Council are entitled Chancellor in reference to the position
he held.
The school badge is based on the coat of arms of the
More family. A coat of arms consists of the arms, which
appear on the main design, in this case a shield, and the
crest, which appears above that shield. When members of
families with coats of arms marry, they usually join the arms
and crests of both families, resulting in a complex and
cluttered design. A family often had their coat of arms
redesigned and simplified, a decision the school also made in
order to produce a unique but recognizable badge for Saint
Thomas More Collegiate in Burnaby, BC, Canada.
The major section of the arms is described in heraldic
terms as Argent, a chevron engrailed between three
moorcocks sable, combs, wattles, and legs gules. Argent
means that the background is white, symbolizing in heraldic
terms peace or serenity and traditionally purity or virtue.
Dividing the arms into three parts is a black spiky-edged
chevron or inverted V. The chevron, based on the roof
beams of a house, symbolizes protection and was granted to
someone who had achieved a notable enterprise or had built
a church. The engrailing or spiky edge is associated with
land or the Earth and usually implies the bearer has done a
P-5 The School
noble deed on Earth for which they will be rewarded in
Heaven. The color black is traditionally associated with
grief, but heraldically symbolizes constancy, faithfulness, or
loyalty.
The chevron divides the crest into three, a number which
is religiously very powerful, suggesting among other things
the Holy Trinity, the three Wise Men, the three crosses, and
Christs resurrection on the third day. In each of the three
sections is a black moorcock with red crest, throat, and legs.
These birds are all black in the school badge, but the color
red has been retained as one of the school colors, for it
symbolizes military fortitude or courage, as well as
magnanimity or generosity. Furthermore red is
appropriately associated with martyrdom. The three
moorcocks are symbols of courage and tenacity, since these
birds are renowned for fighting to the death. The moorcocks
are also example of canting heraldry, which uses puns:
many More or Moore families have chosen these birds as a
pun on the family name.
The top dexter moorcock, which is the right side
heraldically but is on the viewers left, is hidden by
quartering argent on a chevron between three unicorn heads
sable, as many bezants. In other words, one quarter
(heraldically) of the shield has an inset design. Again there
is a black chevron, straight-edged this time, on a white
background, with similar heraldic connotations as the main
design. Each of the three divisions contains a black
unicorns head. The unicorn is a symbol of courage,
strength or virtue. This latter quality in heraldic terms is
related to the Latin word vis or man, that is male human, the
source of the English words virtue and virile. The unicorn is
a mythical animal associated with Scotland, and when
England and Scotland united under James I, a unicorn
replaced one of the English lions in the coat of arms of Great
Britain.
On the black chevron are three golden roundels or
bezants, the golden coins of Byzantium or Constantinople.
The bezant symbolizes trust and was a fitting device for Sir
Thomas More who was for a time Under-Treasurer of
England. The roundels often symbolize charity, but another
heartwarming tradition is they stand for the money that Sir
John More, Thomas father, paid to give freedom to a black
slave.
The crest is A Moors head affrontee sable. In other
words, the crest, which faces forward, is black and probably
represents the freed slaves head. It may also signify that a
member of the family had been on the crusades. The choice
of the Moors head is another example of canting or
punning heraldry. In some versions of the More family coat
of arms, the crest was a helmet, while in yet others the crest
was a helmet with the slaves head replacing the plume. The
school chose the helmet as the crest, not only for obvious
racial reasons, but also to reinforce the knightly theme and to
stress the knightly qualities of courage, courtesy, and
chivalry.
Below the coat of arms appears a scroll with the Latin
phrase Scientia per fidem. This Latin phrase is the school
motto and means Knowledge Through Faith. Behind the
shield appear also the knightly crossed swords and the
classical heraldic decoration of Acanthus leaves.
 Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook P-6 The School
Structure of Governance
STMC Trustees

System of School Communication

STMC Ltd. Board of Directors

President
Administration to Parents
At STMC we favour the use of the Schools Website and
email communications to inform our parents and The emails
Parents Association
are usually quick notices to alert our community of
Administrative Team Advancement Office activities, changes in schedules, or notices from the STMC
Parents Association. We ask that all families provide (and
keep updated) an email address to where these notices can be
sent. If you have not already provided or updated your email
Athletics Director Department Heads Support Staff
address you can sign up for email notices at www.stmc.bc.ca
or email to info@stmc.bc.ca. Also be sure to add
Teaching Staff info@stmc.bc.ca as a safe sender in your email security
settings to allow the messages to be received into your inbox
and not marked as junk and deleted.
STMC Students
Administration to Staff
1 Meetings
a Staff meetings: usually occur once a month
STMC Foundation b Department head meetings: usually the last Wednesday
of each month or at the call of the principal
The stated purpose of the STMC Foundation, a society c Advisory Council-once a month
incorporated under the Society Act of British Columbia on 2 Faculty Bulletin: published each Monday
June 20, 2003, is to receive gifts, bequests, trusts, funds, and 3 Knightly News-posted weekly
property for the purpose of disbursing or loaning funds or
property to Saint Thomas More Collegiate Ltd. Staff to Students
1 Classes
2 Announcements in class
STMC Advancement Office Administration to Students
1 Announcements on the video monitors
The Advancement Office strives toward advancing the 2 Announcements on the public address system
mission and vision of STMC through external relations with 3 Students Council meetings
parents, alumni, donors, and other stakeholders, fundraising, 4 General assemblies
and communications. The Advancement staff provides a 5 Grade level meetings
range of services to STMC and its extended community 6 Individual conferences
including:

Coordinating the development of funding priorities.

Students to Administration
Implementing and coordinating resource
development initiatives such as annual appeals, 1 Students Council meetings
capital campaigns, and donor cultivation and 2 Individual conferences
stewardship events.
Administering all donations to the STMC
Foundation that includes accepting and receipting School to Alumni
of gifts. 1 E-mail & Website as required
Helping establish and maintain long-term
relationships with alumni, donors, and key
stakeholders.
Assisting with the coordination of special events
that foster ongoing relationship with the STMC
community.
Acting as a financial agent for the STMC Parents
Association and Alumni Association.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook P-7 The School

Student and Family Commitment to STMC Tuition Policy

Students attending STMC must demonstrate a pattern of
academic success, positive behavior and regular school
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attendance. In addition, STMC families must be responsible
in meeting their financial obligations to the school (see
Tuition Fees below). Failure to maintain commitments in
one or more of these areas may prevent the student from
continuing their education at STMC.
Parental cooperation is essential. If, in the opinion of the
administration, parents behavior seriously interferes with
the teaching/learning process, STMC may require parents to
withdraw their child and sever their relationship with the
school. After grade 8, a students continued enrollment at
STMC is evaluated annually. To remain enrolled, a student
must fulfill the requirements stated above.
STMC reserves the right to refuse re-registration to any
student who is under an academic or behavioral contract
with the school administration or who displays a
disrespectful and non-compliant attitude toward religious
studies or any other faith-based school activity.
1 All tuition payments and fees are to be submitted at the
time of registration. Lump sum payments can be made or
monthly EFT payments (Pre-authorized debit) can be
filed with the school.
2 No student will be registered for a new school year if
any payments are outstanding from a previous year.
3 If tuition payments are overdue by thirty days (30) days,
the Business Manager will contact those involved to obtain
payment. Payment must be made within fourteen (14) days
of notification from the Business Manager.
4 Having received more than two (2) NSF payments, the
Business Manager will notify the persons involved, in
writing, that we will no longer accept EFT for payment.
5 For every NSF payment, an administration fee of $40.00
will be charged.
6 The School will take legal action to obtain unpaid
balances if all other resources fail.
Unless special arrangements for payment of tuition have
been made with the Business Manager, in writing, the
above policy will be in effect.

Tuition Fees
Saint Thomas More Collegiate is an independent
Catholic School in the tradition of the Christian Brothers.
Partial funding is received from the Government of British
Columbia, which means that all other funding required for
operating purposes is covered by tuition payments and
various fundraising efforts.
The vast majority of parents and guardians are faithful in
paying the tuition costs and other fees related to their
childrens attendance at Saint Thomas More Collegiate.
However, there are a few people who default on payments
each year. It is inherently unjust to obtain a service and then
fail to pay for it. As well, lack of payment defeats the
fundraising efforts that are so vital in ensuring that the
School is able to continue to provide a quality education.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook P-8 Academic Program

Calendar & Schedule

GradingScale
The school calendar provides important information regarding

holidays, schedules, special events and more. The calendar may be All marks are reported using the following scale:
viewed or downloaded from the school website: 100 - 86 A (Excellent)
Http://www.stmc.bc.ca 85 - 80 B+ (Very Good)
The B) grade is not used for Final Marks
Courses scheduled during the regular school day follow an eight
period rotation that is set on the school calendar. Courses scheduled 85- 73 B (Above Average)
before or after the regular school day meet according to a timetable 72 67 C+ (Average)
provided by the instructor. Online courses do not generally have a
set meeting schedule. 66 60 C ( Satisfactory)
59 50 C- (Passing, risk of failure)
Academic Reporting
49 - I (Unsatisfactory)
Four printed report cards are issued during the year:
Grades below 50% will be reported as an F
Fall (Q1) Progress Report: provides a letter grade and
teacher comment for each for the Final Report
course

Term 1 Report Card: provides a percent, letter Student GPA

grade and teacher comment
for each course.
Spring (Q3) Progress Report: shows a letter grade only for
year-to-date achievement in
each course
Term 2 & Final Report Card: provides a percent, letter
grade and teacher comment
for each course. Final exam
results are also reported
where applicable
PowerSchool Reporting
Student GPA (Grade Point Average) calculations are based on credit-
weighted percentage grades for all courses except Health & Career
Education 8 & 9, Teacher Assistant 8 12, and Grad Transition 12,
Student GPAs are formally reported on the Term 1 and Final Report
Cards.
Work Habit Grade
Student effort and attitude in terms of homework, behavior, and
classroom contributions are reported according to this five-point
scale: site grade reflecting the students performance both inside and
outside the classroom: homework, behavior, classroom contributions
are all reflected in this grade.
5 Excellent work habits

All teachers record student grades and attendance using the STMC 4 Above average work habits
PowerSchool system. Parents and students may access this system 3 Average work habits
for detailed, real-time information using the Internet or mile apps.
2 Below standard work habits
Access credentials for the STMC PowerSchool System are provided
to new families in September. All parents and students may also 1 Very poor work habits
contact the STMC IT Department for prompt assistance in resolving
any problems encountered with the system.
Examinations
Mid-term examinations for selected courses are scheduled in January,
and count for 20-40% of the Term 1 mark.

Final examinations for selected courses are scheduled in June, and

count for 20-40% of the overall final mark. Note that courses with
Provincial Examinations will calculate final marks according to
Ministry of Education regulations.

Honor Roll
Honor Roll certificates and awards are based on a students rounded
GPA (Grade Point Average) as reported on the Term 1 and Final
report cards. Three certificate levels are awarded:
100 - 90 Distinction Honors
89 86 First Class Honors
85 80 Honors
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
How to Get Organized
Suggestions for Notebook Organization
Materials needed
1 Bindera good strong one, with rings which close solidly
2 3 sets of plastic tabbed dividers;
3 Loose-leaf (teachers might specify clear or graph paper);
4 Plastic pouch3 hole;
5 Packet of hole-strengtheners to go in pouch;
6 2 duo-tang project folders.
Organization
1 The first section in the binder is labeled Homework.
2 Each days homework is dated and neatly written out.
3 Subject teachers should always allow time for homework
to be notedand demand that it is.
4 Homework checks can be done easily.
5 The back page(s) are reserved for long-term
assignments.
6 Other sections are reserved for separate subjects or areas
within subjects (English may be divided into novels, short
stories, vocabulary, etc.) Because of individual teacher
preferences, there can be no single organizational method.
7 The plastic pouch holds hole-strengtheners, and any
material to be sent homesuch as letters or report cards
should be placed in the pouch.
P-9 Academic Program
8 At the back of the binder, just after the pouch, the 2 duo-
tang folders are kept, ready to be used if any teacher
wishes to review a students notes or work.
9 On return, the notes are replaced in the binder and the duo-
tang returned to the back.
10 Extra section dividers are kept at the back to be used if a
teacher wishes to begin another area of study.
This organization works
The most disorganized students, once introduced to this
plan, improve tremendously, because their own weaknesses
are compensated for, and teacher supervision is much easier.
Some advantages
1 Since all books go home and return to school each day,
the students cant say, I forgot my book(s).
2 Since all students are required to note all homework
whether they complete it in class or notsupervision by
teachers and parents is made much easier, since a quick
check can be made to verify completion and /or quality.
Since everyone has a homework section, and all other
subjects are in the same binder, supervision is a snap.
3 Any part or all of a students notes can be checked by pick-
up without having to stop ongoing class-work.
4 Any part can be rewritten without disfiguring a notebook
or leaving in place low-quality work. All classwork or
assignments should be dated in order to maintain the sense
of the binder as a portable filing system.
4 Any teacher notes (Xeroxed) should be hole-punched and
put in place appropriately in the binder.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook P-10 Academic Program

Academic Requirements (Grade 8-9)

Courses Grade 8 Grade 9 * MATH
Advanced students can
Religion (School Requirement) Religion 8 Religion 9 write a Math 8 Challenge
Career and Health Education Career Health 8 Career Health 9 Exam. Math placement
will be determined by the
Language Arts English 8 English 9 Math Department Head!
Social Studies Socials 8 Socials 9
**FRENCH
Science Science 8 Science 9 French Immersion
Physical Education PE 8 PE 9 students can write a French
Challenge Exam. French
Second Language French 8 French 9 placement may vary at the
Mathematics *Math 8 (4) *One from discretion of the French
Math 9 or Math 9 Enriched Department Head for
French Immersion
**French French 8 French 9
***APPLIED
***Fine Arts/Applied Skills Choose One from the Choose One from the SKILLS/FINE ARTS
following full year courses following full year courses Info Tech involves
Band 8 or Choir 8 Band 9 or Choir 9 developing computer skills.
OR OR
***Choose two of the ***Choose two of the ***Due to class size
following half year courses following half year courses limitations, students may
Art 8 Info Tech 8 Art 9 Info Tech 9 not always get their first
Drama 8 Woodwork 8 Drama 9 Woodwork 9 choice in these courses.

Some students in consultation with the Administration and their parents will opt to take a
Learning Assistance Block rather than French!
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook P-11 Academic Program
Grade 10, 11 and Requirements - What You Need to Graduate from BC and STMC
In order to graduate from the province of BC, every student in the Graduation Program has to pass certain basic
courses in their grade 10, 11 and 12 years. In addition, students must pass Religion 10, 11 and 12 to graduate
from STMC.
MINISTRY REQUIRED COURSES Minimum Credits
Planning 10 4
English 10 4
English 11 4
English 12 or Communications 12 4
Math 10 4
Math 11 4
a Fine Arts and/or Applied Skills 10, 11 or 12 4
Social Studies 10 4
Social Studies 11 4
Science 10 4
a Science 11 or 12 4
Physical Education 10 4
Grad Transitions 12 (See Below) 4
Total Required Course Credits 52 credits
REQUIRED STMC COURSES
Religion 10 4
Religion 11 4
Religion 12 4
Total STMC Required Course Credits 12 credits
In addition students must take at least 4 other elective courses. At
least 2 of these electives must be at the grade 12 level. 16 credits
OVERALL TOTAL: 80 credits
Additional Information
Graduation Transitions: There are 3 aspects!
Personal Health - maintain a personal health plan and participate in at least 150 minutes per week of
moderate to vigorous physical activity in grade 11 and 12.
Community Connections - participate in at least 30 hours of work experience and/or community service
and describe what was learned.
Career and Life - complete a transition plan and present significant accomplishments.
EXAMS: Students are required to write a minimum of 5 Provincial Exams.
English 10 (20% Exam/ 80% Course Work)
Science 10 (20% Exam/ 80% Course Work)
Math 10 (Essentials, Regular, Enriched) (20% Exam/ 80% Course Work)
Grade 11 Social Studies (20% Exam/ 80% Course Work)
A Grade 12 Language Arts (English 12) exam (40% Exam/ 60% Course Work)
Note: Except for the English 12 Provincial exam, all other Grade 12 provincial exams are optional.
BC Government scholarships will be awarded based on government exam results in English 10, Science
10, Math 10, Socials 11 and English 12..
External Learning Credits Students can earn further credits for activities undertaken outside of STMC.
Students who are involved at a very high level in athletics or the arts can qualify. Students who have
completed certain courses outside of school may also qualify for credits toward graduation. (See Academic
Counselling)
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Personal Counselling
Mr Steve DeLazzari and Ms Joanna Boyd
The Personal Counselling Department can best be described
in a simplistic fashion as follows:
Whenever we feel ill, we will try and remedy the situation
by seeing our doctor. If our teeth are hurting us, we will see
a dentist, or if we sustain a sports injury we will see a
physiotherapist.
The above are only some aspects of how our bodies might
break down. So much of how God created us depends on
our thoughts, our emotions and our behaviors. If any of
these three areas break down, it can lead to a variety of
struggles in ones life, whether on the homefront, at work, or
at school. Counselling helps individuals who are struggling
in any of these three areas, and the counselors are here to
help any student or family reach their maximum potential.
Referrals for counseling may come from parents, friends,
teachers, administration or individuals themselves when they
recognize that they are struggling in some facet of their life.
Should the need arise, please do not hesitate to contact either
counselor at:
Steve De Lazzari steve.delazzari@stmc.bc.ca Ext. 118
Joanna Boyd Joanna.boyd@stmc.bc.ca Ext. 114
P-12 Counselling
Academic Counselling
Mr Hank Bouwman, Mr Bernie Kully
and Mr John Spanjers
The Academic Counselling Department provides advice for
all grades on courses necessary for high school graduation.
We also help students in grades 10, 11 and 12 prepare for the
transition to post-secondary life. We give information on
college and university entrance requirements, help students
with the application process and provide information
concerning post-secondary scholarship applications.
Through Planning 10 students are exposed to a computer
career selection program which gives students some
direction in trying to select a career profession. Students can
re-visit this program in their later years.
Utilizing the school website, information evenings, class visits,
office visits, the Academic Counsellors endeavor to help students
maximize their STMC experience from an academic perspective.
Below is the contact information for the Academic Counsellors:
Bernie Kully bernie-kully@stmc.bc.ca Ext 126
John Spanjers john.spanjers@stmc.bc.ca Ext 115
Hank Bouwman hank.bouwman@stmc.bc.ca Ext 119
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Career and Health Education
Career Health and Education 8 and 9
(Mandatory)
The aim of Health and Career Education 8 and 9 is to provide
students with the knowledge, skills and attitudes that will
assist them in making informed decisions related to their
health, their education and their future careers.
Health and Career Education 8 and 9 provides a foundation of
learning for Planning 10, the required Graduation Program
course. Health and Career Education 8 and 9 represents a
continuum of learning, developing and building on key
concepts and abilities from year to year that enable students to
become informed decision makers and active participants in
planning and taking responsibility for their own lives.
Planning 10
Planning 10 is a course required by the BC Ministry of
Education for all Grade 10 students. The course starts to
prepare students for life after high school. It covers education
and career plans, health, personal finances and the graduation
program. Planning 10 is taught as a full year course at STMC.
Religion
STMC Religion Department Philosophy
The mission and vision of the religion department are based on
the Essential Elements of a Christian Brother education. We
strive to enrich the spiritual lives of our students and
encourage them to manifest their faith through instruction,
community service and personal growth. The curriculum and
co-curriculum experiences (ie. retreats) has an aim to
encourage students to live a Christian lifestyle. Overall,
through our teaching, mission collections, our service program
and the presence of the Brothers, the religion department aims
to create a positive religious experience for our community.
Religion 8 (Mandatory)
Religion 8 serves as a foundation for our Catholic community
with a focus on the basic overview of the Old Testament and
Gods covenant relationship with us. Students will also learn
about the life and charism of Blessed Edmund Rice and the
Essential Elements of an Edmund Rice Christian Brother
Education. In addition, an introduction to prayer, the
sacraments, the liturgy and Theology of the body will be
covered in this course.
Religion 9 (Mandatory)
Religion 9 is a study of the New Testament with a special
focus on Jesus as a person, his position as the son of God, how
he was called, his discipleship and his mission. The course
covers Jesus and the Mystical Body, the Sacraments, the
Eucharist and the Liturgical Year.
There are several main units of study that are involved in this
course but they are focused on the key events of Jesus life and
the central themes that are found in the gospels. The other
P-13 Courses
major component of the course is how we as individuals fit in
with the teachings of Jesus, prayer life, the sacraments, the
liturgy and Theology of the body.
Religion 10 (Mandatory)
The main focus of this course is Moral theology, including the
study of natural Law, conscience and its formation, Sin and
Virtue. The course is designed to make the student think by
discovery. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is covered, as are
decision making, critical thinking skills, specific moral issues,
and sexual ethics.
Morality comes from the Latin word moralitatem meaning
character. The choices we make build our character and
shape the people we become. If life is a trip, morality is our
road map. This course explores Catholic teaching and
questions societal values, providing students with an
opportunity to shape and flex their moral compass.
Religion 11 (Mandatory)
The main focus of this course is Church history. The Church
has a very rich and complicated past. As Catholics we believe
that Jesus Christ is God. Therefore the most important event
in our history was the Incarnation. The second most important
event must be the establishment of our Church by Christ.
Throughout the year we will be examining the Church and its
history to have a better understanding of the Church.
This course is intended to help you appreciate and understand
the history of the Catholic Church by: tracing the major
moments in Church history, showing how the Church is on a
journey guided by the Holy Spirit, fostering knowledge and
pride in Christian heritage and identity, exposing students to
Catholic writers, helping students recognize themselves as
Church and by examining the connections between Church
and state throughout history.
Religion 12 (Mandatory)
Religion 12 is designed to help students develop a
fundamental understanding of how Catholicism interacts with
who they are and how they plan to live the rest of their lives.
The course is designed to help students explore issues
involving decisions about life, legal, cultural and moral
dimensions. In addition, students will take a deeper look at the
church teachings as it relates to human life and the dignity of
the person. An overall analysis of the Essential Elements of an
Edmund Rice Christian Brother Education will also be a focus
of this year.
Students who fail Religion
Students of St. Thomas More Collegiate must pass their
Religion class to advance to the next grade. If a student fails
Religion, the student will be required to work on a series of
assignments. Successful completion of this project will allow
the student to advance to the next grade.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Service Hours
(A more detailed explanation can be found on our website)
The STMC Service Program is designed to give students an
opportunity to put into practice the values of Christian charity,
compassion and understanding we are presenting in religion
classes. Since many students already practice these values in
their everyday lives, this component is not a serious obstacle.
Potentially this program will allow students to experience
Christianity in a dynamic way by actively participating in a
wide variety of community service opportunities.
Grade 8, 9 and 10 Guidelines
Students at this level must complete a minimum of 30 service
hours. The hours can be completed entirely at STMC, or in
the students own community, or as a combination of the two.
Grade 11 and 12 Guidelines
One of the Ministry of Education requirements for graduation
is the successful completion of the Work Experience
component of the Planning 10 Course. According to Ministry
guidelines, the STMC service project satisfies the Work
Experience component. The completion and recording by
teachers of this project is therefore crucial. Students may
complete no more than 6 hours of service per semester at
STMC: at least 9 hours per semester must be completed in the
greater community.
Evaluation 15% Term (Please note-students can hand in all 30
by the end of the school year).
General Guidelines
1 Just about any service work over and above regular school
hours, in which a student provides a service for those in
need, can be considered.
2 If the opportunity presents itself, students in any grade
level may do their 30 Service Project hours during the
previous summer, or may do all 30 Service Project hours
during either semester.
3 Proper documentation must be obtained in order for these
hours to count towards the Service Project.
4 The Service Project hours must be done outside of regular
school hours unless otherwise approved by the Head of the
Religion Department.
Documentation
1 All Service Projects must be completed by the date
specified by teachers.
2 The required Service Project questions must be completed
neatly.
3 The Service Project form must be signed by a supervisor or
other adult, not by an STMC student, and a phone number
for this adult must be included for verification purposes.
Examples of Work Acceptable for Service Project Hours
Working at a hospital
P-14 Courses
Working in a parish
Church events
Chancellor Music Festival
Dinner Auction
Craft Fair
Community cleanup days
Youth group
CCD assistant
Organizing an elementary tournament
Assisting the Alumni Office
Working on a neighbors house or yard
Volunteering at a soup kitchen, seniors home, food bank,
daycare, YMCA, recreation center
Giving presentations at the grade 8 or grade 9 retreats
Serving, reading, singing, or taking collection at your
parish, other than your Sunday obligation
A maximum of eight hours per semester of serving,
reading, singing, or taking collection at your parish for
your Sunday obligation liturgy
Examples of Work NOT Acceptable for Service Project Hours
Working at a family business
Missions
Our Vision at St, Thomas More is for every Knight to make a
positive contribution to the Earth and its people. Our mission
and outreach programs help to give students an opportunity to
help the less fortunate in the world through charity and
service. A worldwide tradition in Christian Brothers Schools
is the collection of money for our foreign and local missions.
Retreats
For our staff and students, a retreat is a special time away
from their normal routines to reflect on their lives, to
experience new things, to enjoy being with their friends, and to
learn more about one another, to pray, and to quiet themselves
down to be open to Gods spirit.
Grade 8: Community and Blessed Edmund Rice
(Fall)
Grade 9: Jesus in our life (Spring)
Grade 10: Faith and Morality (Winter)
Grade 11: Leadership (Spring)
Grade 12: Vocations (Spring)
The goals of each retreat are similar, but are approached
differently, and each retreat is changed every year to fit the
needs of the students in that grade. At these retreats, students
will be involved in a variety of activities to help them work
through various goals.
With a committed retreat team and a well organized schedule
and explanation of goals, rules and expectations, the students
have an opportunity to grow as individuals and as a group to
be full members of the St. Thomas More Community. For
many students, these retreats are highlights of their memories
at STMC and sometimes become a turning point in their lives
as they move forward in their faith journeys.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
English
English 8 (Mandatory)
The English 8 course emphasizes the basic skills of
listening, writing, and reading. Through a variety of exercises
students learn the difference between active and passive
listening. They are given a variety of speaking experiences
such as oral reading of prose and poetry as well as class and
small group discussions. Through literature read in class,
students are introduced to new vocabulary, as well as the more
common figures of speech. The writing sequence of drafting,
revision for clarity, proofreading and editing is introduced.
Grammar and punctuation are taught in the context of student
writing.
English 9 (Mandatory)
In English 9 students continue to work on the basic skills
of listening, speaking, writing and reading. There is a variety
of speaking experiences similar to the process taught in grade
8 but applied to grade 9 material. Students learn how to
organize ideas into effective paragraphs, considering such
factors as limiting the topic, unity, and coherence. The writing
sequence of drafting, revising for clarity, proofreading and
editing is reviewed. Through the literature read in class
students review the common figures of speech as well as
learning other figurative expressions as they appear in the
grade 9 literature. Students continue to build a broad reading
vocabulary.
Social Studies
Socials 8 (Mandatory)
The emphasis of the course is on the integration of the study of
the history with the geography, literature, art, and music of
many regions of the world. Students are asked to consider a
number of primary sources from a variety of genres, and to
apply themselves to understanding the uses and limitations of
each. The students are also asked to compare various
perspectives, see the present-day relevance of their studies,
and explore connections between cultures, periods, and
disciplines.
Socials 9 (Mandatory)
Socials 9 is a two part course which covers European history
and Canadian history. The European section of the course
includes the English Civil War, the French Revolution,
Napoleon, and the Industrial Revolution. The Canadian
history component of the course includes the early explorers of
Canada and concludes with the War of 1812. Aside from
history, students will also be learning about the geography of
Europe and Canada.
P-15 Courses
Science
Science 8 (Mandatory)
In this course students explore a variety of topics that
enable them to develop the skills necessary for further study in
biology, chemistry and physics. Students acquire the skills to
devise a scientific experiment by using their knowledge of the
scientific method. They will learn a variety of graphing
techniques, methods for collecting data and how to use a
compound light microscope. A large part of the curriculum
involves the studying of the human body. The focus is on the
organization of the body as well as to develop an awareness
and understanding of how each of the body systems sustains
life by maintaining a steady state termed homeostasis.
Students will also discover the properties of waves and be able
to relate these properties to the electromagnetic spectrum. An
exploration into the world of optics will enable students to
learn about how light interacts with mirrors and lenses.
Finally, the properties of matter will also be studied with a
focus on the Kinetic Molecular Theory, thermal energy,
density and pressure.
Science 9 (Mandatory)
Science 9 is a continuation of Science 8. It reviews cell
structure and function then expands to cell division in
unicellular and multi-cellular organisms. The cell cycle,
mutations, asexual and sexual reproduction and assisted
reproductive technologies round out the biology section of the
course.
Space exploration is a key unit in the course and involves how
the universe formed the components of the universe, and how
human knowledge of the universe continues to increase
through observation and exploration.
The Electricity section of the course involves static charges,
electric forces, ohms law and simple circuits. It concludes
with uses and power of electricity.
Safety in the classroom and workplace is essential to a well
run facility and review proper safety practices. Chemistry
involves investigating matter and the atomic theory. We then
explore the world of the atom and how atoms join together to
form molecules. The periodic table is explored and we learn
how to organize atoms to form ionic and covalent compounds.
The course concludes with learning the physical and chemical
changes involved in reactions.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Mathematics
Mathematics 8 (Mandatory)
The Mathematics 8 course deals with a range of topics
including number operations with fractions, decimals and
integers, data analysis, geometry, measurement, and algebra.
Problem-solving skills are developed.
Mathematics 9 (Mandatory)
In Mathematics 9 students study numbers: integers, rational
numbers, exponents, squares and square roots. The algebra
strand includes solving equations and inequalities. Algebraic
problem solving is stressed. Polynomials and their operations
are introduced. Measurement includes circle geometry, scales,
similar polygons and surface area. Graphs of linear and non-
linear relations are introduced.
Languages
French 8 (Mandatory)
The basic elements of French grammar are introduced as
students learn to communicate using simple vocabulary and
common expressions. The development of spoken language is
balanced with the essentials of written expression. This is both
a fun and practical introductory language course.
French 9 (Mandatory)
Students continue to progress in the study of tenses, regular
and irregular verbs, and other parts of speech. A more formal
approach to grammar and sentence structure is followed. The
use of adjectives, articles, prepositions and other grammar
rules enhance the level of the student's communicative skills.
Oral activities, skits and dialogues allow the student to become
more comfortable with the spoken language. Exploration of
geographic, cultural and historical perspectives introduce the
student to the diversity of the French speaking world.
Physical Education
The goals of the Physical Education Program are to assist
students in developing knowledge and understanding of
factors involved in attaining competence in and appreciation of
physical activity, maintaining positive personal attributes and
interpersonal relationships as well as a positive attitude
towards participation in physical activity, developing efficient
and effective motor skills, and enabling them to apply these
skills to a wide variety of physical activities, and in developing
and maintaining physical fitness.
Physical Education 8 (Mandatory)
PE 8 introduces the students to health and safety factors,
personal equipment care and the need for showers;
conditioning exercises and the major muscle groups. Students
take part in no fewer than eight team activities and ten
individual activities. The course includes an introduction to
the science of good health, personal health, body systems and
diseases.
Physical Education 9 (Mandatory)
PE 9 is a continuation of PE 8 with a more intensified program
concentrating on weight training, circuit training and warm
P-16 Courses
ups. Through a variety of exercise, team sports and games,
students are exposed to many activities that will make them
life-long active learners.
Physical Education 10 (Mandatory)
PE 10 is the completion of mandatory education at STMC.
This class is a combination of all skills and knowledge learned
from grade 8 and 9. Students are required to teach a class and
be involved in understanding their activity levels. Again
through a variety of exercise, team sports and games, students
are exposed to many activities that will make them life-long
active learners. After completion of Grade 10 students will
have the option to take either Physical Education 11-12 or
Fitness 11-12.
Applied Skills
All Applied Skills courses taken in Grades 8 and 9 are
half-year elective courses
Info Tech 8 (Elective)
This course focuses on helping students gain and develop
computer skills that will aid them throughout high school. The
course includes units and projects related to keyboarding.
Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint), online
safety and behaviour and HTML coding.
Woodwork 8 (Elective)
The course is mainly an introduction to hand tools, with a
variety of smaller power tools and machines also being
included. The main objective is to provide a variety of
woodworking experiences and techniques which develop the
students skills in proper woodworking procedures, including
the safe setup, operation, general maintenance, and use of all
the hand and power tools in the course. Techniques for
developing good designs, choosing and manufacturing the
most appropriate wood joints, proper production procedures,
assembly strategies and finishing techniques will also be
covered.
Info Tech 9 (Elective)
This course develops a number of important IT concepts and
skills. Basics such as keyboarding and IT terminology are
covered and reviewed throughout the course as students work
on learning more advanced skills with productivity and
imaging applications.
Woodwork 9 (Elective)
The emphasis in this course is to introduce students to the
proper setup and safe use of power tools and power machines,
primarily the table saw, radial arm saw, jointer and surface
planer. The use of the late is optional. By their choice of
specific projects and assignments coffee and end tables,
medicine cabinets, chests of drawers, piano benches, etc.
students develop specific skills which will enable them to
calculate materials and costs and to manufacture quality
modern and/or traditional furniture.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Fine Arts
All Fine Arts courses taken in Grades 8-10 are half-year
elective courses except for Music Courses
Visual Arts
Art 8 (Elective)
Art 8 provides students with an introduction to Visual Arts at
the secondary school level. In Art 8, students will use a
variety or art media which include graphite, charcoal, Sharpie,
India ink, Prisma Color, pencil crayon, acrylic printing ink,
and watercolour paint. Students will also complete
sketchbook activities and drawing tutorials that reinforce the
skills and techniques learned in the classroom and modeled in
the studio. The students will engage in an extensive study of
the visual Elements of Art and Design. The elements are:
line, colour, form, space, shape, texture, value and tone.
Throughout the course, students will also apply the Elements
of Art and Design on a daily basis as they create no fewer than
eight original works of art. The focus of Art 8 is to have fun
and learn about Visual Art.
Art 9 (Elective)
Art 9 allows students to expand upon the visual art styles and
methods studied in Art 8. In Art 9, students work towards
mastering the art media that they were introduced to in Art 8.
Students will also complete sketchbook activities and drawing
tutorials that reinforce the skills and techniques learned in the
classroom and modeled in the studio. The students will
engage in an intensive study of the visual Principles of Art and
Design. The principles are: balance, movement, rhythm,
contrast, emphasis, pattern & unity. Throughout the course,
students will apply the Principles of Art and Design on a daily
basis as they create no fewer than 8 original works of art. The
focus of Art 9 is to have fun and to master the art media.
Performing Arts
Drama 8 (Elective)
This course allows students to learn and develop
communication skills and gain speaking and performing
confidence. Students partake in improve activities, learn about
theatre history and vocabulary and work collaboratively with
their peers to create and perform scenes based on a variety of
concepts.
Drama 9 (Elective)
This class builds upon the skills explored in Drama 8.
Students participate in various activities which help them
develop their creativity and concentration skills. Students are
also introduced to basic theater terminology. The skills that
are learned in this class can also be used in other classes.
P-17 Courses
Music
Grade 8 Band
This full year course is designed for Grade 8s who are
interested in playing in a concert band setting. This on the
time table course allows students the opportunity to learn basic
music theory, history, and performance skills on an approved
concert band instrument. During the course of the year
students will rehearse, perform, and take part in clinics and
workshops. Students are required to rent their own
instrument for this course. Prior musical training is not
required for this class.
Grade 9 Band
This on the time table, full year course is designed to further
the musical development within a concert band setting for
students in Grade 9. Students will be instructed in areas of
music theory, listening, music history, and musical
performance in various musical styles. Students are required
to rent their own instrument for this course. Students must
either have completed Grade 8 band or have permission of the
Band Director to be eligible to take this course. This course is
a co-requisite for Jazz Band.
Senior Concert Band Grades 10-12
This on time table full year course is open to students from
grades 10 to 12 and is designed to develop students musical
skills to a higher degree within a concert band setting.
Students will be further instructed in areas of music, theory,
listening, music history, composition, and musical
performance in various musical styles. Students are required
to rent their own instrument for this course. Students must
either have completed Grade 9 band or have the permission of
the Band Director to be eligible to take this course.
Jazz Band A
This full year course meets regularly off the timetable every
Tuesday and Thursday morning as well as every Friday at
lunch. This auditioned group is open to students from Grades
8 to 12 who are selected based on their audition. Students will
be instructed in advanced areas of Jazz theory, listening, Jazz
history, composition, Jazz improvisation, and performance in
the Jazz style. Students are required to rent their own
instrument for this course. Students must either be enrolled in
a concert band program or have the permission of the Band
Director to be eligible to take this course. All students must
audition to be eligible for this class. They will be placed in
either Jazz Band A or B dependent on their audition.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Jazz Band B
This full year course will meet regularly off the timetable
every Monday and Friday morning, as well as Wednesday at
lunch. This group is open to all students who are currently
enrolled in a concert band program. Students will be
instructed in basic areas of Jazz theory, listening, Jazz history,
composition, Jazz improvisation, and performance in the Jazz
style. Students must either be enrolled in a concert band
program or have the permission of the Band Director to be
eligible to take this course. All students must audition to be
eligible for this class. They will be placed in either Jazz Band
A or B dependent on their audition.
Concert Choir 8
This is a year long course that explores choral music from a
wide variety of cultures, genres, and time periods through
study and performance. Emphasis will be placed on
developing the complete musicianship of each student through
instruction on basic vocal technique, sight-reading sills, and
introductory music theory. In addition to our Christmas and
Spring music nights, all choir students will have the
opportunity to perform at music festivals, school masses and
services, and are eligible to go on the STMC music trips.
Concert Choir 9
This is a year long course that explores choral music from a
wide variety of cultures, genres, and time periods through
study and performance. Emphasis will be placed on
developing the complete musicianship of each student through
instruction on basic vocal technique, sight-reading sills, and
music theory. In addition to our Christmas and Spring music
nights, all choir students will have the opportunity to perform
at music festivals, school masses and services, and are eligible
to go on the STMC music trips.
Concert Choir 10
This is a year long course that explores choral music from a
wide variety of cultures, genres, and time periods through
study and performance. Emphasis will be placed on
developing the complete musicianship of each student through
instruction on basic vocal technique, sight-reading sills, and
intermediate level music theory. In addition to our Christmas
and Spring music nights, all choir students will have the
opportunity to perform at music festivals, school masses and
services, and are eligible to go on the STMC music trips.
P-18 Courses
Concert Choir 11/12
This is a year long course that explores choral music from a
wide variety of cultures, genres, and time periods through
study and performance. Emphasis will be placed on
developing the complete musicianship of each student through
instruction on basic vocal technique, sight-reading sills, and
advanced level music theory. In addition to our Christmas and
Spring music nights, all choir students will have the
opportunity to perform at music festivals, school masses and
services, and are eligible to go on the STMC music trips.
STMC Chamber Singers (Grades 9 to 12)
This is an auditioned choir open to students in grades 8 to 12.
Students must be registered in the concert choir program to be
eligible for this course. Emphasis will be placed on
performing challenging choral music from a wide variety of
cultures, genres, and time periods. In addition to our
Christmas and Spring music nights, the chamber singers will
perform at various festivals throughout the lower mainland.
Opening and remembrance mass, the STMC open house, the
elementary recruitment tour, as well as a number of different
performance engagements that come up throughout the course
of the year.
STMC Jazz Singers (Grades 10 to 12)
This is an auditioned choir open to students in grades 8 to 12.
Students must be registered in the concert choir program to be
eligible for this course. Emphasis will be placed on
performing a wide variety of vocal jazz repertoire as well as
study of history and jazz theory. In addition to our Christmas
and Jazz music nights, the Jazz Singers also perform at various
competitive festivals throughout the lower mainland and at
occasional school functions.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Discipline Policy
In keeping with our Mission Statement, the aim of our
discipline policy is to create an atmosphere conducive to the
development of a Christian community and of school pride.
We believe that all persons must practise self-discipline and be
willing to work at becoming cooperative and contributing
members of the school and the community. STMC strives to
provide a safe and non-threatening environment, and expects
all students to conduct themselves in a respectful, responsible,
and considerate manner and in accordance with Christian
values.
Code of Conduct
The Code of Conduct applies to all members of the St. Thomas
More Collegiate community travelling to and from school, in
class, at school functions, on school property, and in situations
where they are seen to be representatives of the school.
Members of the STMC community are expected to:
Conduct themselves in a polite, responsible, and
respectful manner with other students, parents, teachers
and all school staff;
Show respect for school property and the property of
others;
Be respectful, attentive and participate at Liturgies and at
prayer services, regardless of their own beliefs or religious
affiliation;
Dress in an acceptable manner, in accordance with the
intent of the schools dress code;
Take responsibility for the task of learning including
being punctual, attentive, cooperative, attending all
classes and completing all assigned work;
Use language appropriate to a Christian community, free
of name calling, insults and profanity;
Be considerate of others, their thoughts, feelings,
background, and situation;
Be free of alcohol, illegal drugs, and weapons;
Be aware of their own rights and responsibilities and to
exercise these in a positive manner.
Harassment
The STMC community will not
tolerate any form of harassment by
its members.
Harassment can be any action that unjustly creates an
unwelcome or negative environment for an individual, is
detrimental to that individual, or undermines the dignity and
self-respect of the victim. Examples of harassment may
include, but are not limited to, bullying, extortion, verbal and
physical threats, excessive name-calling or teasing, racial
remarks, and offensive slogans, language, or pictures (this
includes all forms of cyber bullying as well).
Harassment also includes sexual harassment, which is seen as
any unwanted sexual attention of a persistent or abusive nature
made by anyone who knows or ought to know that such
P-19 Policies
behavior is unwanted. It also includes sexually oriented
remarks and behavior which may reasonably be perceived to
create a negative emotional environment for students, teachers,
visitors, and others in the vicinity of the school. Any persons
who believe they are victims of harassment of any form are
requested to report their concerns to the school administration
immediately.
Disciplinary Steps
When discipline does not develop from within, it must be
imposed from without, and overall school discipline is
primarily the responsibility of the Vice-Principals. Mr Orser
deals with all concerns for grades 8-10, and Mr Steele deals
with grade 11 and 12 concerns.
At the beginning of the year, teachers will discuss with their
students what is expected of them in the classroom and set
their classroom guidelines.
Disruptive behavior in the classroom is dealt with according to
the following steps:
1 Students are reminded of guidelines.
2 Teachers assign their own disciplinary actions, e.g.
detention, phoning home.
3 If the problem persists, teachers phone the parents and notes
confirming the phone calls are recorded on the students
anecdotal records, kept by the teachers. Copies may be
given to the Vice-Principal.
4 If the students behavior does not change, they will be sent
to a Vice-Principal. Reports explaining the disciplinary
actions taken are given to the teachers. More serious
infractions or persistent patterns of misbehavior will be
reported to parents.
Disruptive behavior outside the classroom is dealt with
according to the following steps:
1 The students are sent to a Vice-Principal with notes
explaining the problems.
2 Appropriate actions are taken by the Vice-Principal.
The administration of the school reserves the right to search
lockers, students bags and jackets to ensure the safety of
students and to support school policy. As lockers are school
property, searches of student lockers can be conducted at any
time without the presence of the student. Students bags or
jackets (on site) would be searched in the presence of the
student. Such searches would occur by a teacher or
administrator when they suspect (have reason to believe) the
said items contain illegal substances, weapons or stolen items.
Procedure for Complaints /
Problems / Difficulties
If you have a complaint or wish to resolve a problem or
difficulty regarding students, the correct procedure is to
approach the teacher involved first. If after that you feel the
problem has not been resolved satisfactorily, then contact the
School Administration. It is important that any problems are
discussed early with the persons concerned. Nothing is gained
by complaining to other parents, students, or teachers.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Creating a Climate of Responsibility
As part of the Catholic community at STMC, we, the students,
staff and parents are expected to conduct all of our
relationships so that our actions reflect the following
Christian-Centered values and beliefs:
Honesty and integrity
Responsibility and Cooperation
Respect and Harmony
With respect to safety of possessions at STMC, the following
observations are deemed to be accurate:
Many students bring money or valuable possessions
to school
Most items that are reported lost or stolen are not
secured either on the person or in a locker
The majority of items reported lost or stolen occur in
the PE change rooms. Most frequently, these lost or
stolen items are left unsecured.
The official Lost and Found is located in the area next to the
main office. Our Leadership class, once a month, cleans out
this area by returning items with student names on it and
displaying items in our foyer. Unclaimed, non-STMC clothing
is donated to the local charity.
Regulations and Requirements for students
Secure all valuables at all times including clothing in
either your personal locker or bring a second lock to
secure your valuables in the PE change room.
Report any missing items to the appropriate Vice-
Principal. Complete a Missing Items Report.
Check regularly the Lost and Found to recover
missing items.
Inform teachers or the Administration of any
suspicious activity that appears to be theft.
Expectations of Staff
Coaches and PE staff will monitor the PE change
rooms to ensure all valuables are secured.
Students must not be allowed in the PE change room
once the door is secured and locked.
Staff will not allow bags or valuables of any sort into
any instructional area.
Assist the student when a reported item is missing.
Administration will prepare an annual report
summarizing the incidence of theft to provide further
guidance in the development of alternative strategies.
P-20 Policies
Expectations of Parents
Label all clothing and have your son or daughter
check the Lost and Found regularly.
Homework
All assigned work that is to be graded is due on the
date assigned by the teacher.
Students must refer to their course outlines for
specific policies regarding graded assignments.
Policies may vary by course.
At teacher discretion, a student with incomplete or
outstanding assignments will be referred to the
appropriate administrator.
Students referred to administration will be dealt with
on a case by case basis. Consequences may include,
but are not limited to, completing all work with the
administrator until the student is up to date in all
courses.
St. Thomas More Collegiate students pursue excellence in all
endeavors. This includes demonstrating academic
accountability by completing all graded assignments to the
best of their ability and by the given date.
.
Missed Tests
If a student misses a test due to sickness or a medical
condition, they are expected to do the following:
Contact the school no later than 9:00 a.m. on the day
of the test and leave a message with the front office
and with the voice mail of the subject teacher.
Bring a note justifying their absence to their subject
teacher(s) and to the front office immediately upon
their return to school.
If the student complies with these tasks, they will be granted a
re-write of the missed test at the time and on the day that is
convenient for the subject teacher. If the student does not
comply with the above mentioned tasks, they risk being
granted a zero for that test.
If a student misses a testing situation because of an extra-
curricular activity, it is the responsibility of the student to tell
the teacher well in advance (not on the day of or the block
before) of the test day so arrangements can be made. For
example, the teacher may arrange to have the student write the
test during lunch before they leave for their activity. Failure to
notify the teacher leaves the student at risk of being granted a
zero for that test.
In all cases of missed tests, the responsibility falls on the
student to make contact with the teacher.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Cheating
Student Cheating on Exams and Assignments
Any form of dishonesty, academic or otherwise, is a clear
violation of the Christian principles which students at STMC
are expected to embrace. Dishonesty, in addition to harming a
particular students integrity, also harms the wider community.
Therefore, any type of academic dishonesty is considered to be
a serious offense and will result in serious consequences.
Every student must be aware that the following issues
constitute examples of academic dishonesty and that there are
penalties attached to each.
(1) Plagiarism is using other peoples words and/or
ideas without clearly acknowledging the source of the
information.
Copying word-for-word
Paraphrasing: taking ideas from a source and
just re-writing them in your own words
without giving credit to the original source
Copying and pasting text from any web-site
or on-line media
Collusion: turning in another students work
and claiming it as your own
(2) Cheating
Using or attempting to use unauthorized materials
during any quiz, test, exam or other academic
exercise constitutes cheating. Cheating also includes
looking at another students paper during a test or
exam, obtaining or giving a copy of a test prior to the
time of the test, and submitting homework copied
from another student. The person who gives such
answers or information to another student is equally
guilty of cheating.
Consequences
Any student found cheating on an exam or
assignment will be granted a mark of zero.
If a student demonstrates a consistent pattern of
cheating, they will be expelled.
P-21 Policies
Exams
Mid-Term/Final Exam Policy
Mid Term Exams occur during the last two weeks of January.
The start and end dates vary slightly each year so please
consult your calendar before arranging any vacations. Final
Exams occur during the 2nd to 3rd week of June (again consult
your calendar for exact dates before arranging any vacation
time). Mid Term and Final Exams are worth 20% at the grade
8 to 10 level and up to 40% at the grade 11 and 12 levels. All
students are required to write all mid-term and final
examinations during the exam period as specified, unless
excused by the subject teacher, department head and the
administration. FAMILY VACATIONS ARE NOT A
VALID REASON FOR MISSING ANY EXAM.
Exceptional circumstances will be dealt with on an individual
basis. The parent or guardian must contact the subject teacher
a minimum of one week before the exam date to seek approval
for their child to reschedule their exam time. If the student is
unable to write the exam on the day specified due to a medical
condition, an official doctors note will be required. This
student must write the mid-term or final exam at a time
decided by the subject teacher in consultation with the parent
and administration. Students who choose not to write a mid-
term or final examination will receive a zero for their
exam, will likely face failure for the course and may have
their registration rejected for the next school year.
The following exam policy is in effect:
a) All students from grade 8-10 will write mid-term and
final exams in the core subjects as defined by the
Ministry of Education those being Math, English,
Science and Social Studies. There will be no mid-
term or final examinations in French or Religion.
Three of the four final exams in grade 10 are
provincial exams worth 20% of a students final mark
(Science, Math and English).
b) All grade 11 students will write mid-term and final
examinations in Social Studies, Math, English,
Biology, Chemistry and Physics. There is one final
provincial exam worth 20% of a students mark in
Social Studies. Students will not write mid-terms or
finals in Earth Science 11, French 11, Psychology 11
or Religion 11,
c) Grade 12 students will write mid-terms and final
examinations in Biology, Chemistry, Geography,
History, and Math. All grade 12 students will
complete the provincial exam in English 12 only.
Grade 12 students will not write mid-term or final
exams in Economics 12, French 12, Law 12, Religion
12, Civilization 12, AP Psychology 12 or AP Human
Geography 12 (Unless they choose the optional AP
exam in these two courses) .
 Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Dress Code
The purpose of the Dress Code is to encourage students to
appear neat and clean at all times, to foster in them the sense
of belonging to a community, and to instill in them the
concept that school is a place for work and study. The dress
code discourages competition among students while
maintaining a sense of pride in appearance. Both parents
and student are responsible for following dress code
regulations. All items of the Dress Code must be clean and
in a respectable condition, and it is the prerogative of the
school administration to determine whether any part of a
students appearance does not conform to the spirit of the
Dress Code. The administration reserves the right to judge
new styles of dress, hairstyles and all areas of dress code, as
they emerge on the scene, to determine if they conform to
the standards of STMC.
Consequences of Violation
Students can be given morning, lunch-time or after school
detentions which will last for 45 minutes.
Students can be asked to go home and change
Students can be placed on in-school suspension.
Students who consistently violate the dress code will be
placed on contract and if further violations occur will be
asked to leave the school.
Jewelry and Accessories
Earrings are to be worn in the ears only; no other visual
piercings are allowed. For safety reasons, students will be
required to remove all earrings for PE or sports. Students
are advised not to bring expensive jewelry to school. No
bandannas, hats, caps, headbands or sweat bands are to be
worn.
Hair Styles
Conform to standards of good grooming and neatness. No
exaggerated spiked hair styles/ Mohawks or any other hair
style meant to draw attention to the individual. Style and hair
colour must be natural in appearance. Students may only dye
their hair blonde, brown or black.
Winter Dress Code
Winter Dress Code is in effect from Thanksgiving until the
first Monday in May and will consist of the following:
Tops To Be Worn
A STMC golf or blouse (white, red, or black) sold through
the Knight Club. These tops must be tucked in.
A STMC V-neck sweater or STMC sweatshirt or STMC
Cardigan sweater sold through the Knight Club may be
worn over an STMC golf shirt or blouse.
A STMC jacket sold through the Knight Club may be
worn over a STMC golf shirt or blouse (STMC jackets
from former eras are not to be worn).
P-22 Athletics
Only a black, red, or white t-shirt may be worn under a
STMC golf shirt or blouse and it must be tucked in. The t-
shirt must be one solid colour (cannot have any patterns).
No hoodies, fleeces or sweatshirts of any form are to be
worn underneath any other STMC top.
Pants, Kilts and Skirts / Socks and Leggings
Black or beige Khaki, Docker or Cord pants-no jeans!
Students are to wear pants at their waist level.
Girls have the option of wearing a black skirt or kilt. The
kilt can be purchased through the Knight Club. Kilts and
Skirts are to be no more than three inches above the knee.
No leggings are to be worn
Plain black, skin-tone or white socks or stockings must be
worn
Students are not to wear any type of pants
that have a strap, pocket or metal chains on the side;
that have a zipper at the back;
that have no pockets
Footwear
Dress shoes or running shoes. For safety reasons high
heels or platforms are not permitted.
Boots (of any type) may be worn to school in poor weather
but once in the school the student must change into their
shoes or runners.
Summer Dress Code
Summer Dress Code is in effect from the first Monday in
May until Thanksgiving. For the summer Dress Code, the
following substitutions may be made.
Pants, Kilts or Skirts
Black or beige dress shorts may be worn.
Dress shorts will have two regular pockets in the front, one
or two regular pockets at the back, but no pockets or straps
on the sides. To be dress shorts they must also have a
zipper at the front and a hem or cuff.
Shorts must be worn no more than three inches above the
knee.
PE (All Year)
For PE, the following are required:
STMC T-shirt;
Black, red, or grey STMC shorts or sweatpants;
Athletic socks and running shoes.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Red Days
The idea of Red Days is to show school spirit by wearing as
much red as possible; these are not days when students are
allowed to wear whatever they want.
Shorts, sweat pants, T-shirts, etc. are to be worn only if
they prominently display red or are STMC apparel.
All STMC type clothing is acceptable.
All clothing must reflect the values of STMC. Clothing
with slogans and pictures that may reflect poor taste or
may not reflect the values of STMC should be left at
home.
If students do not wish to wear red, they are expected to be
in regular dress code.
Attendance
Students and parents must realize that regular attendance is a
prerequisite to learning. Patterns of attendance and
tardiness, which last a lifetime, are established in a persons
younger years. It is the policy of STMC to teach a positive
attitude in these areas. Frequent absence, or any pattern of
tardiness, is not acceptable behavior. It will certainly not
serve one well in achieving future positions of responsibility.
A student who is absent from school obviously misses
whatever material is covered during the time of their
absence. Attempts at make-up are always going to fall
short of actually being in school at the time the class was
held. Reasons for absence can be varied and numerous, but
it is important for all to realize that, whatever the reason,
absence hurts student academic development. With the
above in mind, it is the policy of STMC to discourage
absence, especially absences for vacations.
Faculty members are not required to provide make up
opportunities for work or tests missed by students for
reasons other than doctor- documented illnesses.
Attendance Procedures
1 Students should proceed to their first class immediately
after the 8:20 am warning bell sounds. Class begins at
8:23 am.
2 The school begins the day as a community with Morning
Prayer at the start of second period at 9:26 am. Anybody
in the hallways during the reading must stop and listen.
3 A Prayer or reading will begin each class. The day will
end with a community prayer.
4 All visitors must report to the main office.
P-23 Athletics
Absence
1 If your child is absent from school for any reason, please
phone the school as soon after 8 am as possible.
2 Students who have missed school must bring a note stating
why they were absent, signed by their parent or guardian.
3 Students are expected to bring this note to the main office
when they return to school.
4 Students are expected to report to the main office before
they return to any classes after an absence.
Absence from School and Qualifying Days
In order to qualify for government funding, students must
be in attendance for 135 days from September to 15th May.
Absence due to illness is not deducted from the 135 days
unless there is no note from the parents verifying the cause
of the absence. The government auditor checks these
notes while completing his attendance audit in June. A
student, who, because of holidays or other reasons, is in
attendance for less than 135 days, qualifies for partial
funding only and the parent is responsible for any funding
shortfall. We, therefore, ask parents, out of consideration
for the schools financial situation, to be very careful
about this matter.
Students Leaving Campus
1 Only students in grades 11-12 are allowed to leave the
campus during school hours without permission.
2 Students who must leave the school or classes for any
reason during the day must check out with the main
office.
3 Students who have parental permission to leave early are
still expected to obtain a dismissal slip from the main
office.
4 No student may leave school without informing the main
office.
Lateness
1 Students who are late do not report to the main office if
they arrive before 8:30 am; they report to their first
class.
2 Students with a first period class arriving at school after
8:30 am must report to the main office before going to
class.
3 Parental notes justifying lateness will be accepted only
if the lateness was due to a pre-arranged appointment (e
g dentist or doctor) or an accident.
4 We do recognize that any one can be late due to external
factors beyond their control. Detentions will be assigned
for lateness. However, if a student shows a persistent
pattern in coming in late, then that student will be placed
on contract and further violations will lead to the
students expulsion.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Special Education Admissions
Policy
St. Thomas More Collegiate is committed to the
education of the whole child in the spiritual,
emotional/social, intellectual, artistic/aesthetic and physical
realms. It is, therefore, our long-term goal to implement a
program and curriculum enabling it to accept and meet the
needs of Catholic students from our feeder schools and
feeder parishes. Consistent with this goal is an effort to
make our facilities more accessible for students with special
needs. However, we do have limited facilities and will
accept special needs students as space, resources and
program allow.
In our commitment to students of special needs we recall the
words of Pope John Paul II at BC Place in 1984, the value
and dignity of the human person does not arise from the
physical or mental qualities, from efficiency, productivity,
or, speed in ones actions. It comes rather from the
fundamental fact that each individual is created by God and
redeemed by the blood of his Son, Jesus Christ.
Policy for Challenge and
Equivalency Credits
(1) The challenge process assesses students prior
learning for the purpose of granting credit for a
Grade 10, 11 or 12 course developed from
provincial curriculum. The equivalency process is
the process of assessing credentials from other
jurisdictions outside the BC school system.
(2) All credits gained through the PLAR process must
represent the same standards as credits granted to
students who have taken the course.
(3) Assessment instruments for the challenge process
may include formal tests (70% of final mark) and a
variety of other assessment strategies appropriate to
the particular course (30% of the final mark).
Assessment strategies must be adapted for students
with special needs.
(4) Students must provide proof of competency to the
administration in a subject before they are granted
the opportunity to challenge a course. The challenge
process is an evaluation process and may not be
used as a way for students to improve a mark in a
course for which they have already earned credit, or
as a way to obtain credit for a course they have
previously failed.
(5) Students eligible for equivalency credits are those
students who transfer to STMC from other schools
outside BC. Equivalency credits are granted only
by school administrators. The administration will
determine the total credit equivalency of the
students previous learning. Administrators will
use the Handbook of Procedures Chapter 2 as a
reference when determining equivalency along with
documentation supplied by the student.
P-24 Athletics
Field Trips
STMC Board recognizes that off-site experiences outside the
school/parish community are effective learning experiences
that enrich the spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional and
physical development of students. All such experiences
should be selected, planned, organized and conducted to
enhance the spiritual, intellectual, social, emotional or
physical development of students and to ensure the safety
and security of all participants.
Trip Plan
Sufficient direction and guidance must be provided for all
trips to ensure each trip is well planned with safety in mind.
Teachers planning an off-site trip are required to provide
parents/guardians sufficient information about the trip to
make an informed decision about its appropriateness and
safety for their child. This notice should clearly indicate the
educational purpose of the trip, destination, cost, method of
transportation, special clothing or equipment needed, the
leaving and returning times, an itinerary of the activities and
a statement regarding the inherent risks of the activity.
Students and parents must complete the field trip permission
form and return it to the Field Trip Lead Teacher or the front
office as indicated on the form.
Supervision
Field trips should, whenever possible, have a minimum of
one adult supervisor for each 15 students. An adult
supervisor may be a teacher, parent, or responsible adult
volunteer approved by the principal (or his/her designate)
that is 19 years of age or older. A supervisor is subject to all
policies, guidelines, and procedures of the Board of
Directors and the school, and the statutes of B.C. and Canada
during the time the supervisor is responsible for students.
This includes the time from departure to return of extended
field trips; A supervisor must act "in loco parentis" (in place
of parent), making wise and judicious decisions that are in
the best interest of the students.
School Closures
If school is cancelled due to bad weather or other
emergencies, it will be announced by local radio and/or
television news at the time of the closing. Please listen to
CKNW 980AM and/or BCTV.
While the school may be closed for classes that day, it does
not necessarily mean that all other activities are cancelled.
You should check with your coach or moderator to see if that
particular activity (e.g. tournament, music festival, league
game, drama production etc) is cancelled or not.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Emergency Procedures
In Case of Fire or Fire Drill (During Class
Time)
Each room has a sign that indicates the closest exit in case of
fire. When the alarm rings, students should move quickly
and quietly to the nearest exit. Go quickly out of the building
and stand well way from the building. Remain there until
given instructions. Any student who does not have a class at
the time (study block) must report to the Admin team at the
front of the school. All teachers of class groups are to send
student attendance confirmation to the admin team at the
front of the school.
In Case of Fire or Fire Drill (Outside of Class
Time)
If the alarm sounds outside of class times everyone should
move quickly and quietly out of the building and assemble
on the field away from the building. Once on the field
students and teachers are required to line up according to
homeroom membership in ascending order, with Grade 8s
assuming the easternmost location and Grade 12s the
westernmost.
Threat to Personal Safety Code Red Alert -
Lockdown Procedures
The following is a brief summary of what students and staff
will do should they hear over the PA system Code Red
Alert followed by a specific location in the school.
(1) Any student or staff member located in an open
area like hallways should proceed to the nearest
safe location (a classroom)
(2) Students and staff already in a classroom should
remain there and do the following:
Move to the safest area inside the
classroom away from doors and windows.
Lock doors and cover windows on doors
Open perimeter blinds if the intruder is
in the building so that police can
monitor activity in the classrooms
Consider it a serious situation and remain
quiet and out of sight
If the intruder is located outside the
building, an announcement will be made to
alert the staff to close blinds and turn off
lights.
Turn cell phones to vibrate or off
Refuse access to the room during a lock
down. Advise office if possible if a
student is in the hallway.
(3) Students and staff located in the gym should move
to the change rooms. Students and staff in the
cafeteria should move into the kitchen.
(4) Any students or staff on the field area should move
to OLM church
(5) Staff that are not in charge of a group of students
will meet at the front office to get further
instructions.
P-25 Athletics
Earthquake
(1) Stay Inside move away from windows, glass,
shelves and objects that may fall.
(2) Duck and Cover take cover under or beside
desks and tables, against interior walls or in
doorways (but be aware of doors slamming shut)
(3) Crash Position get on knees, head down, with
arms, a book, or jacket, covering neck and head.
Count out loud 1-60; after 60 seconds, or after
shaking has stopped, check for injuries or dangers
such as broken glass before standing up and
moving; make sure you have some shoes or some
covering on your feet.
(4) Evacuate building as per fire drill procedure
Prohibited Items
The following list is not exhaustive but these are the types of
items not permitted on school property: firearms, knives of
any kind, laser pointers, fire crackers, water guns of any
kind, alcohol, prohibited substances, illegal drugs, and
chewing tobacco. Skateboards must not be used on school
property and must be kept in the students locker. Cell
phones, pagers and any other electronic devices should be
kept out of sight in the classroom and must be turned off and
not in any way disrupt the learning environment. MP3
players, I-Pods and other portable media players are not to
be brought to the classroom and should be stored in student
lockers. Video cell phones or watches are permitted in the
building BUT THE VIDEO COMPONENT MAY NOT BE
USED ON SCHOOL PROPERTY. All cell phones, pagers
etc. are banned from any test-taking activity.
Illegal Drugs
Any student showing evidence of having consumed or in
possession of illegal drugs at any time while under the
authority of the school is subject to expulsion. Any student
selling illegal drugs to other students will be expelled
immediately and reported to the police. While under school
authority means any time when a student is on the school
campus for whatever reason or in its immediate vicinity and
whenever he/she is attending, participating in, being
transported to or from school-sponsored functions.
Smoking
1 In keeping with the policies of other public and
educational institutes, smoking is not allowed in school,
on school grounds or during any school activity.
2 Students are not to be seen smoking within sight of the
school.
3 Students will be suspended and could be expelled if they
are persistent violations.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Social Media/Electronic
Communication
and
Personal Electronic Device
Usage
STMC students are expected to communicate appropriately
in all contexts, including on social media sites and via
personal electronic devices. Students are encouraged to use
electronic media and personal electronic devices in
appropriate, educational ways.
Social Media/Electronic Communication Policy
The school has an internet acceptable policy which
students, as well as parents and guardians, must sign
before students may access the internet at the school
and/or utilizing school facilities, codes, or websites.
It is the expectation of St. Thomas More, however,
that online student behavior will be exemplary both
on and off school grounds. STMC students always
represent the school community.
Accordingly, students will be subject to disciplinary
action by the school for acts such as, but not limited
to, harassment or any other type of threatening, sexual
or otherwise inappropriate or oppressive
communication that is conveyed via the internet (or
other technological contexts or devices) regardless of
the time of day or students locations. Such
misconduct could result in any number of
consequences, including probations, suspensions or
expulsions.
Personal Electronic Device Policy
Personal Electronic Devices should remain out of
sight and off unless use is specifically authorized by
the teacher in charge. At teachers discretion, PEDs
may b e used in ways that are educationally sound and
as learning and organization tools. Unauthorized uses
of PEDs during instructional time and school events
(masses, pep rallies, assemblies, etc.) will result in
loss of the privilege to use PEDs ;when teachers
authorize the rest of the class to do so. Continued
disregard for appropriate PED use will be subject to
disciplinary action.
Parents and guardians are asked to support STMCs
PED policy by refraining from sending time sensitive
messages to students personal electronic devices
during the school day. Messages that are essential for
students to receive prior to the end of the school day
should be communicated to the front office.
P-26 Athletics
Suspension and Expulsion
There will be no tolerance for serious infractions of school
policy. Any misconduct deemed serious will always result
in disciplinary action and may result in suspension or
expulsion from the school. The Principal has the authority to
suspend or expel students. This policy has been formulated
in consultation with the principals of the other Catholic
Secondary Schools in the Archdiocese of Vancouver.
Suspension
Student may be suspended if
their misconduct is serious, in and of itself and/or
the accumulation of minor misconducts warrants further
disciplinary action.
For students to be reinstated following a suspension
they must accept responsibility for their misconduct;
they must accept, and follow through with, consequences
established by the school;
they must demonstrate firm purpose of amendment;
parents of the students must accept and support the
schools disciplinary decisions.
Expulsion
Student may be expelled if
the misconduct is deemed serious enough, in and of itself,
to warrant direct expulsion and/or
previous serious misconduct(s) warrant further
disciplinary action and/or
they do not accept responsibility for their misconduct
and/or
their parents do not accept and support the schools
disciplinary decisions.
Students will always be expelled if
they do not accept, and follow through with, consequences
established by the school and/or
their actions place others in moral or physical danger.
Appeals Policy
At St. Thomas More Collegiate, parents, students, teachers
and support staff form an integral part of the Christian
school community. The administration, teachers and parents
must work closely together in the formation of their children
according to the Gospel. To this end, parents are expected to
be familiar with, accept and support the philosophy and
policies of the School.
From time to time, issues may arise where the concerned
parties differ in their perspectives. In these cases both
concerned parties are expected to work toward a resolution
of the issue in a Christian manner, respecting each others
point of view. All parties involved must maintain
confidentiality with respect to all information surrounding
the particular issue.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Where differences of opinion and conflict continue to exist
surrounding certain decisions made by administration or
staff with respect to students, the following procedure will
be followed:
Appeals Committee
The Board of Directors of St. Thomas More Collegiate will
appoint a three-person Appeals Committee. The Committee
is appointed for a one-year period commencing on
September 01 and ending on August 31. Members of the
Committee may be re-appointed by the Board. No member
of the Board of Directors may serve as a member of the
Appeals Committee.
Basis for Appeal
A basis for application to appeal exists when a decision
adversely impacts the education, health or safety of the
student. If a student initiates the appeal, a copy of the appeal
will be sent to the students parent/guardian.
The following decisions shall be deemed to adversely impact
the education, health or safety of a student:
a) grade promotion and graduation
b) expulsion
Procedure
Initial Steps
An appeal to the Appeals Committee must be initiated within
fourteen (14) days of the decision which is alleged to have
impacted negatively on the education, health or safety of the
student. This is done only after all administrative procedures
to resolve the issue with the person(s) directly involved have
failed, including both of the following:
a) First, meeting(s) to solve the problem with the
complainants(s) and the employee(s) who made the
decision in question
b) Second, if the matter is not resolved, meetings(s) with
the person directly involved and the principal
c) The complainant will need to send a copy of the
Notice of Appeal to the Principal.
Appeals Procedure
Every appeal must be initiated by a written Notice of Appeal
directed to the Chair of the Appeals Committee. Copies of
the appeal must be sent to the individuals whose decision is
the subject of the appeal. The Notice of Appeal shall state:
d) the name, address, grade and homeroom placement of
the student;
e) the name, address of the person(s) making the appeal;
f) the decision that is being appealed;
g) the date on which the student and/or parents/guardian
bringing the appeal were informed of the decision;
h) the name(s) of the persons who made the decision that
is being appealed;
i) the grounds for the appeal and the relief that is being
sought;
P-27 Athletics
j) a summary of the steps taken by the student and/or
parent/guardian to resolve the matter.
Appeals Committee Selection
1 Within seven (7) days of the receipt of the Notice of
Appeal, the Chair of the Appeals Committee will
invite a written response from the employee whose
decision is the subject of the appeal or take any
steps deemed desirable or necessary to get a full
understanding of the issue. A further seven (7) days
shall be allocated to this process of gathering
responses or additional information. The Chair of
the Appeals Committee will prepare a report for the
entire Committee concerning the matter and will
provide a copy of this report to all persons involved
in the appeal. The Appeals Committee will
consider an appeal after it has determined that bona
fide efforts have been made to resolve the matter in
question through the consultation process outlined
in Section A.
2 Where the Appeals Committee considers it
desirable to receive oral submissions, it shall set a
time, date and place for this purpose and shall
notify all of the persons concerned. At any time
during the appeal process, the appellant is entitled
to be accompanied by a parent/guardian, or
interpreter/translator.
3 The Appeals Committee may make any interim
decision it considers necessary pending the
disposition of the appeal.
4 The Appeals Committee shall make a decision as
soon as possible but not later than fifteen (15) days
of all necessary information being gathered and
shall promptly notify, in writing, the appellant, the
person involved and the Principal of its decision.
5 In making its decision, the Appeals Committee may
give primary consideration to the education, health,
or safety of the collective student body.
6 The decision of the Appeals Committee shall be
final and binding.
7 The Appeals Committee may refuse to hear an
appeal where:
k) the appeal has not been initiated within 14 days
of the date of the decision which has impacted
negatively on the education, health or safety of
the student;
l) the appellant has refused or neglected to
discuss the decision under appeal with
person(s) directed by the Chair of the Appeals
Committee;
m) the Appeals Committee determines that the
decision does not impact negatively on the
students education, health or safety.
8 The Appeals Committee may consider an appeal
notwithstanding any defect in form or other
technical irregularity.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook P-28 Athletics

Using Transit
Some Helpful Suggestions
A large number of our students use the transit system to
travel to and from school. BC Transit Security made the
following suggestions to assist students in preventing and/or
handling difficult situations when riding public transit.

Dont set yourself up to be a victimknow your

surroundings.
Inform the bus driver, transit security, or a
responsible adult about what is happening.
Sit up near the front of the bus or near the Skytrain
doors.
At the Skytrain station, stand near an emergency
phone, and use it if you feel threatened. Attendants
will contact the RCMP. All platforms have video-
camerasincidents need to be reported immediately
in order to be effective.
Travel in small groups. Familiarize yourself with
the area you are frequenting.
On the Skytrain, push the yellow strip above the
window in case of an emergency.

Please go over these suggestions, as well as others, that

will ensure your children enjoy a safe journey.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Athletics and
Extra-Curricular Activities
Students who participate in school activities or athletics are,
in a special way, ambassadors of the school. It is expected
that they portray at all times a behavior rooted in Christian
principles and that they exhibit the vision, mission and
values of STMC.
The administration reserves the right to deny students
participation in extra-curricular activities or athletics if their
behavior is contrary to the rules and expectations of the
school.
For more information see: Athletic Policy
Sports
Boys Basketball
Tryouts begin at the discretion of coaches for all players not
in football or cross country. These other players are given a
chance to try out for the team once their other season is
finished. The Grade 8, 9 and JV teams compete in the
independent league against Vancouver College, St. Georges,
St. Pats and Notre Dame. Varsity boys are now competing
in the AAA league and have a strictly exhibition schedule.
The season runs from November to March, with Provincial
Championships in late February or early March. Games and
practices occurring anytime from 7:00am-9:00pm.
Girls Basketball
The Girls basketball program has developed into one of the
best in the province. The girls are dedicated and strive for
excellence. We have an excellent coaching staff and have
three teams; bantam, junior and senior.
The girls skills are developed at the Bantam level and are
honed and sculpted at the junior and senior levels. Each
team practices three to four times a week and competes in
numerous tournaments throughout the season. We
participate in the Independent League which is our avenue to
qualify for the Provincial Tournaments. The Bantam team
won the 2012 Provincial tournament and compete each year
for a berth into the Provincial Tournament. The Independent
league is one of the strongest leagues in the province. We
have won the league for the past three years at the senior and
junior levels. The senior team has placed 11th, 3rd and 3rd n
Province the past three seasons.
The girls at the Bantam level receive equal playing time in
games throughout the season. The playing time for juniors
and seniors is dependent upon attitude, hard work and skill
level. We strive for excellence and the players challenge
each other for playing time. We host three Chancellor
Basketball Tournaments each year where we attract very
competitive teams from all over the province.
Winners from the independent participate in the Lower
Mainland tournaments. The top four teams from this
tournament usually qualify for Provincials.
P-29 Athletics
Cross Country
The Cross Country program encourages athletes from all
ages to participate in a lifelong activity. The team begins in
early September but all athletes are encouraged to start
training on their own in August. Beginners are accepted as
well as seasoned runners with a good mix of boys and girls
participating from grades 8 to 12. The team trains from four
to 5 times a week and there is one league competition a
week. The team competes in the Independent League. The
top 15 boys and girls runners in the final zone meet advance
to the Provincials. The top two teams (top 5 runners) also
advanced to the Provincial for the team competition. The
Provincial meet is usually the first or second week of
November.
Football
All football teams begin preseason practice 1 to 2 weeks
before the school year begins. Once the school year begins,
all teams will practice every day after school. Practice for all
teams beings at 3:00pm and generally lasts until around
5:00pm. Practices are generally held at Power Memorial
Field (STM) every day. There are occasions where practice
is held off school grounds. It is expected that all who are
involved in the football program will attend practice every
day. Game day for the grade 8 team is Monday or Tuesday;
for the Junior Varsity it is Thursday, and for the Varsity it is
Friday or Saturday. The grade 8 and junior teams do not
play or practice on weekends, whereas the Varsity team
plays on some Saturdays but does not practice on weekends.
The grade 8 team plays in the Tier 1 level, whereas the
Junior Varsity and Varsity team plays in the AAA Eastern
Conference. All teams are eligible for the Subway Bowl
Provincial Championships which usually occurs on the first
Saturday in December.
Golf
The Golf Program at St. Thomas More Collegiate is one of
the most successful sports offered by the school. The sport
is open to all students in every grade level. There are three
tiers to the sport: A, AA, AAA. The knights participate in
the AA tier. Starting in 2008 the Knights won five
consecutive Provincial Championships. In 2013 we placed
third and in 2014 we placed second. The team is selected in
March and continues until the Provincial Championship the
first week of June. The team competes against independent
and public schools and participates in the Lower Mainland
Championships in the middle of May. The top two or three
teams from this tournament qualify for the Provincial
Tournament
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Lacrosse
Boys Lacrosse begins the last week of November and runs
through March. The BCs are held during the first week of
March. The team competes against schools from all over the
Lower Mainland. All home games are played at Burnaby
Lake field on Wednesdays at 3:30pm and practices are
Mondays and Tuesdays at Byrne Creek Secondary from
3:00pm to 5:00pm. The team does have practices over
Christmas break and all players are expected to be there.
Dependent upon securing either a teacher moderator or
teacher coach in order to be offered.
Girls Soccer
The Junior and Senior girls compete against other
independent schools and Burnaby/ New Westminster
schools. The season runs from March to the beginning of
May.
Swimming
The swim club is open to both girls and boys with or without
previous competitive swimming experience. STMC
competes in the Burnaby/New Westminster/North Shore
League. Practices are on Monday night at SFU and
Thursday mornings from 7:00am to 8:00am at Canada
Games Pool in New Westminster. Students must arrange
their own transportation to and from practice. The season
begins in mid September and runs through November.
There are three exhibition swim meets at Harry Jerome Pool
in North Vancouver. These occur on Sunday evenings.
Additionally, students have the opportunity to swim at an
independent school meet at UBC Aquatic Centre and our
zone meet in November for those who qualify. The
provincials are held in the last two weeks of November.
Tennis
This sport is open to both boys and girls at all levels.
Tryouts begin in March followed by league matches. The
season usually finishes towards the end of May. Practices
are generally twice a week and begin after school.
Track and Field
Begins in March and finishes with the Provincial
Championships at the beginning of June. Open to both girls
and boys from grades 8 to 12. Practices are from 3:00pm to
4:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and on some Fridays.
League meets are Wednesdays at Swangard Stadium
beginning at 1:15pm. Special meets are the Gran Forza
Indoor Invitational at the Richmond Oval, University of
Washington Indoor Meet and the Oregon Relays at Eugene
in April. All running, throwing and jumping events are
taught.
Ultimate
Ultimate is a fast paced co-ed sport. Boys and girls of all
grades are welcome to try out for the junior and senior
Ultimate teams. The season runs from the end of March to
the end of May. Training and tryouts usually begin in mid-
P-30 Athletics
February, with winter sports athletes having the opportunity
to try out upon the completion of that season. Both teams
practice twice each week with games on Fridays in Burnaby,
Coquitlam and Surrey. The teams compete in several
weekend tournaments, including Spring Reign in Burlington,
Washington. Students interested in playing should focus on
the core skills involved in Ultimate throwing, catching,
running and field sense.
Volleyball
Begins the week before school starts with a 4-day training
camp for Jr. & Sr. levels. During the season, the Grade 8
team practices every day from 3:00pm to 4:45pm. The
Junior and Senior teams also practice every day, alternating
between 3:00pm to 4:45pm and 4:45pm to 6:30pm time
slots. Our teams play in the Independent League against
Notre Dame, St. Patricks, Little Flower Academy, York
House, Crofton House, West Point Grey Academy and
Carver Christian. The Grade 8 and Junior teams play their
matches (2) on Thursdays and the Senior team plays their
matches on Mondays and Wednesdays. Each team also
plays 3 to 4 tournaments per season. League Playoffs begin
the first week of November with Provincials occurring the
last weekend of November for Juniors and the first weekend
of December for Seniors.
Wrestling
Open to all, both girls and boys, from grades 8 through 12,
wrestling begins in late November or early December, and
finishes with the Provincial Championships in February.
Wrestlers from grade 9-12 practice Monday through
Thursday from 3:15 to 5:00, while grade 8 wrestlers practice
at these times on Tuesday and Thursday. Wrestling is a
competitive sport that requires athletes to give total
commitment, both physical and mental. Because wrestlers
must be extremely fit, conditioning plays a major role in all
practices; because wrestling is a very technical sport,
attendance at practices is a must. A wrestler may be cut
from the team for having the wrong attitude, but not for lack
of ability.
Curling
Boys and girls of all grades are welcome to try out for the
Curling program. The season runs from the end of
September to the end of February or early March. Typically
we do not make cuts as this is largely a club team featuring
mostly in school competition with limited competition with
other schools. Some years we do have to place a limit on
numbers due to a lack of access to ice and limited coaches.
Practices are Mondays after school at the Royal City Curling
Club. There is an opportunity to have one male and one
female team progress to the Lower Mainland zones and
qualify for the Provincials. Once the fees are paid all curlers
become junior members of the Royal City Curling Club
where they can, on their own time, have greater access to the
ice and to coaching provided by the club. Curling is a life-
long sport and many alumni Knights return to the program
each year to coach.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Clubs
Blessed Edmund Rice Team (B.E.R.T.)
Edmund Rice, the founder of the Christian Brothers, was a
highly successful businessman who used his fortune to help
educate needy young people and improve the lot of many of
the disadvantaged people of his time. BERT strives to
follow its ideals through prayer and action, raising money
for mission efforts at home and in the Third World and
taking part in local programs, including 24 hour famines to
raise money, collecting candy for Agape Street Ministry,
running food drives, planning and setting up liturgies and
leading the school in daily prayer.
Dance Committee
An annual school club composed of all grade levels and ran
by student council. Dance committee is in charge of creating
decorations, set up, and clean up of all school dances.
Student council is in charge of selling tickets.
Teacher Moderator:
Debate Team
The Debate Team holds weekly meetings in which students
are given new topics to discuss and debate. Working either
in small groups or amongst their friends or larger groups
involving all peers, members of the debate team get to
interact with all team members. The STMC Debate Team
welcomes students who are enthusiastic about the prestigious
learning environment and having their voices heard, and
strives to provide all members with a sense of belonging,
community involvement, and pride in representing our
school.
Teacher Moderator: Mr. Zavarise
Dinner Club
The Dinner Club is a club initiated by Mrs. Cirillo who has a
passion for cooking and loves to share it with others.
The club is open to any students grade 10-12. It is about a
group of enthusiastic students who get together to learn some
basic cooking techniques. It gives the students the
opportunity to share their passion and is just the right
incentive to get them motivated to make healthy meals from
scratch.
The Dinner Club meets once a week. The students are given
a demonstration by Mrs. Cirillo of the recipe they're making
and finally enjoy the meal together. They are given a recipe
and are encouraged to try and make it at home for their
family. We also do fundraising which we contribute to
different organizations around the school.
The motivation behind the club is to get give the students an
introduction to the different cultures of food and learn some
basic cooking techniques. If you love food and love to have
fun join the Dinner Club.
P-31 Extra-Curricular Activities
Green Team
An annual club open to students of all grade levels. The
team is responsible for participating in activities such as an
all around school clean up, bottle drives, green days to raise
money, and other community events that help support
environmental sustainability.
Teacher Moderator: Ms. Konrad.
Improv Club
The Improv Club meets Wednesdays at lunch from January
through May. Students develop improvisational acting skills
through warm up activities, theatre sports and scenes. The
club is open to students in grades 8-12.
Mainstage Production
STMC puts on one mainstage production during each school
year. Auditions for the play or musical occur in the fall.
There are many opportunities for interested students to get
involved as actors, backstage crew members, makeup artists,
hair stylists, stage managers, set builders or ushers.
Rehearsals occur after school for approximately 6 hours per
week and on a number of Saturdays. The production occurs
in the spring.
Peer Tutoring
Peer Tutoring begins in mid-October, with volunteer tutors
who obtain a high mark in the subject area tutoring their
peers who need extra help. The tutor receives basic training
and support from the teacher and then matched up with a
student requesting assistance. Students meet in the
library/subject classroom according to a schedule that works
for both participants.
Tutors will receive credit towards service hours. Peer
tutoring is a valuable and rewarding club at STMC helping
with the academic success of our students.
Moderator: Mrs. Spagnuolo
Pep Club
The Pep Club is committed to promoting a wide variety of
events in the school. Through planning pep rallies, attending
games, supporting other events, and maintaining an overall
positive attitude, the Pep Club's mandate is to promote
school spirit. Students are expected to put in a minimum of
thirty hours of after school work. These hours can occur
sporadically throughout the year. Members are also
expected to attend a number of games throughout the year.
Moderator: Ms. Alice Roder
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook P-32 Extra-Curricular Activities

Poster Club
Student Council
An annual club composed of students of all grade levels. The
poster club is in charge of making posters for school events,
such as big football games, special sales, and special week The Student Council at STMC plays an important role in the
events like the Chancellor Basketball Tournament. The team activities of the school. After being elected by the student
is also responsible for posting the posters around the school. body, the council becomes responsible for a variety of tasks
Teacher Moderator: Mr. Adams that require numerous hours outside of school time. Some
examples of their responsibilities are dances, pep rallies,
spirit week (With Greek Olympics), red days and Christmas
Pro-Life Club spirit week. The council is consisted of 10 members with
Pro-Life club is open to students of all grades, but requires each grade having a representative. Student Council is a
an application for membership. This club is intended for highly important position for the student body and school.
people who have a passion for life and support moral life
decisions. Pro-Life members are involved in a range of
events such as March for Life, Pro-Life conferences and Pro- Book Club
Life Vigils.
Teacher Moderator: Mr. Richard Coulombe
The STMC Book Club meets twice a month to discuss various
book topics. There are a variety of different activities with no
Astronomy Club two meetings being quite the same. During the meetings,
members discuss favourite reads and recommend books to
their peers, as well as play games and organize events. It is
The Astronomy Club is an opportunity for students of all student lead so the success of the club relies on the
grades to learn more about the night sky the moon, planets, participation of its members. The STMC Book Club starts in
galaxies and more. The club meets once or twice per month, October and ends in June. Everyone is welcome!
usually on the school field. The time and date of meetings
depends on sky-conditions, the time the sun sets and what
astronomical objects are visible. No experience is required Moderator: Mrs. Dina Spagnuolo
just an interest in space!
Dragon Boating Club
Teacher Moderator: Mr. Joe Muise
Open to boys and girls from grades 8 through 12. Priority will
Outdoor Club be given to senior students as there are a limited number of
seats on each boat. Practices and competitions are held at
False Creek in Vancouver. Students will compete in one or
The Outdoor club will be headed up this year by Mr. Andy more regattas in the spring.
Barron and Mr. Zoli Szlivka, who both have considerable
experience leading outdoor activities. Activities will occur
every 3-4 weeks, usually on a Saturday. Outings could include Teacher Moderator: Mrs. Loretta Bilawey
but are not restricted to hiking, cycling, camping,
snowshoeing, igloo building, etc. Every attempt will be made
to find outings in the Vancouver area that are transit friendly.
Cost to join is $15 per student. It is hoped that the students
will develop a range of skills in outdoor activities, demonstrate
a degree of self-reliance and a respect for the environment.

Teacher Moderators: Mr. Andy Barron & Mr. Zoli Szlivka

Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook P-33
Criteria
The Night of Knights
The purpose of our annual awards banquet is to recognize all
students who have added to the community of St. Thomas
More Collegiate through either participation in our athletics
program or have volunteered their time in one of our many
clubs. Students who either participate in three school activities
or participate in 2 school activities and have achieved an honor
roll standing in their academics are invited to this night.
In order for a students participation in a club to count towards
the evening the following criteria must be met:
Recognized and approved by school administration
Minimum 25 hours of participation
Teacher sponsor/moderator mandatory
The major focus of this night however is the presentations of
our major awards.
Knight of the Year
(The Brother Pike Trophy Grade 8, The Kay Criteria
Kull Award Grade 9, Junior Knight of the
Year, the Ivan Fulkerson Award Grade 11, and
the James Wade Bourget Memorial Trophy
Grade 12)
Purpose
To honor one student from each grade level who is heavily
involved in multiple aspects of school life and who
exemplifies all areas of the Knights compass.
High Academic Standing
High Level of School Involvement (3 or more
activities) Criteria
High Work Ethic
Leader and Positive Example in the School
The Larry Johnston Memorial Award
(Outstanding Citizenship Grade 12 Only)
Exceptional School Involvement
Organizes / Assists in Many School Functions
Well Respected by Peers and Staff
Spirit Award Criteria
In memory of Mr. John Kozak
Purpose
To honor one student from each grade who shows the best
school spirit. STM is known for its school spirit and we want
to acknowledge students who show their spirit. The Spirit
Award was proposed to honor the memory of the man with the
most school spirit in STMs history Mr. John Kozak.
Athletic Policy
The Student who shows the most school spirit
o Dressing up for red day, and other special
days
o Attending school events, dances, sports
events (both boys and girls), cheering
o Being involved in many different kinds of
school activities e.g. preparing food,
contests, volunteering at social events, set up
and clean up, organizing
o Participation in sports, clubs, activities or
supporting school activities
Having a sense of fun, positive outlook, enthusiasm,
inspires others to participate
Trying their best
Grades and Popularity are not relevant!
Grade 8 Athlete of the Year
There will be one male and one female winner
Must have demonstrated excellence in two or more
school sports
Outside sports may be important, but are not the
determining factor
Demonstrates positive attitude and commitment
Maintain a minimum C+ average
Junior Athlete of the Year
There will be one male and one female winner
The athlete can be in grade 9 or 10 with preference
given to more SR athlete
Must have demonstrated excellence in two or more
school sports
Outside sports may be important, but are not the
determining factor
Maintain a minimum C+ average
Senior Athlete of the Year
There will be one winner
The athlete can be grade 11 or 12 with preference
given to more SR athlete
Must have demonstrated excellence in two or more
school sports
Outside sports may be important, but are not the
determining factor
Demonstrates positive attitude and commitment
Maintains a minimum C+ average.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
St. Thomas More Collegiate
Athletic Policy
Preamble
Saint Thomas More Collegiate welcomed its first student
Knights in September 1960. Opening day brought together
three Christian Brothers and 110 Knights enrolled in grades 7,
8 and 9. Over the years enrolment and staff grew as did the
facilities.
Today Saint Thomas More Collegiate is a prominent member
of the Catholic and civic educational communities in the
Lower Mainland. This is due not only to STMCs
development of facilities and growth in students and staff but
more so because there has also been a corresponding growth in
appreciation of the Catholic educational philosophy which
enlightens and sustains the spiritual, intellectual, social and
athletic facets of a Knights education.
Since its founding, Saint Thomas More collegiate has
constantly sought to create the type of Catholic School
Community in which students are challenged to develop their
total personhood: intellectual, physical, social and spiritual. It
is a credit of past and present faculties that notable success has
been achieved in the area. This success, however, is also due
to the cooperative relationship which exists between faculty
and parents, and its resulting support and encouragement of
the student.
Athletic Policy Objective
The purpose of this policy is to guide staff, students and
parents in their participation in the St. Thomas More
Collegiate Athletic program and to assist in the development
and well being of all participants. This policy cannot cover all
the circumstances that may arise in the operation of an Athletic
program and is not intended to be a substitute for the
application of Christian principles and common sense in the
operation of the program.
Participation in the STMC Athletic program is a privilege for
students, parents, and coaches and not a right. Thus along
with that privilege, all participants students, coaches, and
parents must accept the responsibilities that are articulated in
this policy.
All expectations outlined in this policy are intended to provide
an environment where participants feel that they are safe and
that they belong to a welcoming Catholic community.
P-34 Athletic Policy
Mission Statement
The Mission statement of the Athletic Policy at St. Thomas
More Collegiate is rooted in two of the Essential Elements of
an Edmund Rice Christian Brothers Education at St. Thomas
More Collegiate.
Celebrate the value and dignity of each person and
nurture the development of the whole person.
A Christian Brothers education values co-curricular activities,
special events, and other programs that are important to a
students complete education.
Pursues excellence in all endeavors
A Christian Brother education develops a curriculum that
promotes the harmonious growth of the whole person, fosters
the development of higher order thinking, and prepares its
students for life-long learning.
The Athletic Program at St. Thomas More Collegiate seeks to
provide a wide range of athletic activities for boys and girls
between Grade 8 and 12 so that students will have an
opportunity to compete and experience a quality athletic
experience.
St. Thomas More Collegiate strives for excellence in its
Athletic programs, providing opportunities for individuals and
for teams to achieve at a level of their God given talents and
gifts.
Moreover, it is our desire that our athletic programs be
developed and maintained in order to provide opportunities for
all participants to develop ideals of sportsmanship, ethical
conduct and fair play. To achieve this goal, it is the
expectation that these values be modeled by coaches and
parents.
The objectives of the Athletic Program at St. Thomas More
Collegiate are:
To develop the character of the athlete by teaching
sportsmanship, cooperation, responsibility and
respect for authority.
To encourage and promote skill development, fitness,
wellness and healthy lifestyles.
To help students develop life skills such as
commitment, honesty, humility, discipline, teamwork
and fair play.
To help students develop a strong work ethic and
sense of commitment.
To help students experience the sense of fulfillment
that goes along with preparation and participation in
athletic competition.
To assist students who are in pursuit of post-
secondary athletic opportunities.
To develop and enhance the sense of community and
kinship at St. Thomas More Collegiate.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
Policies and Procedures
Program Offerings
Prior to the commencement of each school year, the Principal
in consultation with the Athletic Director, staff and community
will determine which sports will be offered at the school.
Currently the following athletic opportunities are available at
St. Thomas More Collegiate.
Fall
Cross Country Grades 8-12
Football Grades 8, Junior Varsity and Senior
Swimming Grades 8-12
Girls Volleyball Grades 8, Junior Varsity, Senior
Winter
Boys/Girls Basketball Grades 8, Junior Varsity,
Senior
Boys Field Lacrosse Grades 8-12
Wrestling Grades 8-12
Curling Grades 8-12
Spring
Golf-Grades 8-12
Tennis-Grades 8-12
Track and Field-Grades 8-12
Ultimate Frisbee Junior Varsity and Senior
Girls Soccer Junior Varsity and Senior
Team Selection
1. All students participating in the program must adhere
to the eligibility requirements as outlined by BC High
School Sports.
2. A team will be selected through a fair and impartial
evaluation conducted by the coaching staff. Tryout
times and team selection criteria will be clearly stated
and announced. In most instances, final selections for
a team are not to be made before the third practice at
all levels of play. At the coaches discretion there
may however be an extra tryout for invited student
athletes only. Students who feel they have not been
given a reasonable opportunity to make the team are
to approach the Head Coach to request additional
opportunity to demonstrate their abilities.
3. The number of students selected to any one team is
dependent upon the availability of resources and the
number of team members needed as determined by
the Head Coach and the Athletic Director.
4. Students are encouraged to play at the appropriate
Grade Level teams where they exist. Decisions
regarding students playing above Grade Level should
P-35 Athletic Policy
be made by the Head Coach of the sport after
consultation with the coaching staff of the sport
involved, the athlete, his parents and the Athletic
Director.
5. Prior membership on a team or participation in any
other facet of the school program may have no
bearing on the final selection process.
Participation
1. Students must be considered to be in good standing
with respect to his or her performance in school to
earn the right to participate on a school team. Being
in good standing means giving ones best effort in
all aspects of school life. The Administration, in
consultation with staff and coaches, shall determine
whether a student is in good standing. With respect
to his or her performance as a member of a team, the
Head Coach shall determine whether the student is
in good standing and has earned a right to represent
the school.
2. Students who are suspended from school are not
permitted to participate in any school related activity
for the duration of the suspension.
3. Students absent from school are not permitted to
participate in any activity, practice session, or
competition on that day, If there are special
circumstances surrounding the absence(s), a request
to participate may be made to the Administration.
4. Students are expected to attend all practice sessions
unless absent due to illness or other reasons excused
by the Coach. If a student will be absent from a
practice prior notification from a parent/or the athlete
is required. Practices are essential for proper
conditioning, improvement of technique and
development of the whole team.
5. Students, (unless for unexpected circumstances), are
expected to finish with the team they started the
season with.
Playing Time
1. At all levels it is the coachs responsibility to
determine who will play and how much they will play
in game competition. Students and parents should
fully understand that by joining a team, they are
accepting the pleasures and benefits of participating
as well as the responsibility and commitment to fill a
meaningful role on the team.
2. Grade 8, Grade 9 and Junior Varsity are more
developmental in nature. An athlete, who attends
practice regularly, works consistently and displays a
positive attitude, can expect to play an appropriate
amount of time over the course of the season,
dependent upon a variety of circumstances including,
but not limited to: skill level, commitment, attitude
and best interest of the team. The amount of playing
time is to be determined by the coach as the season
progresses and it would be expected that in the year
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
end tournaments or championship games, coaches
may choose to substitute more sparingly.
Coaches of team sports will communicate with
parents to discuss their practices regarding playing
time. It is expected that each coach would develop a
meaningful role for each team member that provides
opportunity for each student athlete to learn and
grow.
3. Varsity athletic activities have a higher focus on
competition. It is expected that each student athlete
will play in game situations as much as is practical
depending upon ability, game situation, relative
importance of the competition, grade level, and other
factors determined by the coaches. It is expected that
each coach would develop a meaningful role for each
team member that provides an opportunity of each
student athlete to learn and grow.
Multi-Sport Athlete/Out Of Season Training
Consistent with the Essential Elements and the development
of the whole person, student athletes should be encouraged to
participate in a variety of school athletic activities wherever
possible. Normally it is not possible to participate in more
than one activity in each sport season (ie Fall, Winter, Spring).
It is understood that under certain circumstances there
may be opportunity to participate in 2 different sports
in one season (e.g. swimming/football).
To ensure excellence, some sports, particularly at the school
Varsity level, have vigorous out of season training schedules.
In the case of multi-sport athletes, in season sports have
priority over athletes who are also involved in out of season
training in another sport. Coaches should communicate with
each other and with parents and athletes to ensure conflicts are
kept to a minimum. In season coaches shall receive priority
consideration for utilization of facilities.
Out of season coaches need to be mindful of balance (God,
family and academics) for student athletes as well as their full
commitment to in season sports while scheduling out of season
training.
Program Appraisal
All Athletic programs will be appraised regularly by the
Administration and the Athletic Director to provide direct,
systematic feedback to coaches, affirming the good work and
providing opportunities to improve programs.
Recruiting
BC High School sports has some very strict guidelines when it
comes to recruiting. Any coach or representative as defined
by BC High School Sports should not approach any parent or
student regarding athletic opportunities at St. Thomas More
Collegiate except if the student is currently in Grade 7 at a
P-36 Athletic Policy
feeder Catholic Elementary school. If a parent or athlete
approaches a coach regarding athletic opportunities at St.
Thomas More Collegiate, the parent or athlete should be
directed immediately to an Administrator or registrar
regarding application or admissions procedures.
Code of Conduct
Athletes
1. To conduct themselves within Catholic Christian
values.
2. To be punctual and prepared for all practices and
games.
3. To continue to work toward their academic potential
and to be responsible for class work missed for game
or tournament participation.
4. To represent St. Thomas More Collegiate at all times
in a dignified and positive fashion.
5. To be dedicated to their team and teammates.
Athletes choosing to play an additional sport outside
of school during the same season are expected to
honour the schools practice and game schedule.
Students who are not able to make a solid
commitment to attend school practices and games
regularly need to communicate particular situations to
the coach as the situations arise prior to the selection
of the team.
6. To initiate dialogue with the coach if concerns
regarding ones role on the team arise.
7. To place primary commitments to God, family and
academics.
8. To treat officials and opponents with honour and
respect.
9. To take pride in striving to improve skills and
knowledge every day.
10. Although membership on a team is voluntary, the
athlete should make every effort to fulfill his or her
commitment to the team and finish the season.
Coaches
1. To model Christ-like leadership.
2. To convey personal expectations, within the scope of
this policy, to parents and student athletes regarding
schedule of practices, tryouts and playing time.
3. To establish effective communication between
coaches and parents.
4. To take appropriate action on concerns brought forth
by student athletes or parents by reporting to the
Athletic Director and the Principal if the need arises.
5. To ensure all student athletes are nurtured into a role
where they have the opportunity to learn and grow. It
is understood that coaches will work toward
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook
certification and continued professional development
in their particular sport.
6. To understand and to effectively teach the
fundamental skills and fitness requirements of the
sport.
7. To use positive coaching techniques and respectful
language when giving feedback to an athlete.
8. To display confidence in the honesty and integrity of
opponents and officials.
9. To instill a desire in all student athletes to compete
honestly and exercise fair play.
10. Respect and encourage an athletes commitment to
God, family and academics.
P-37 Athletic Policy
o If still unresolved, the issue should be
referred to the Athletic Director.
o If still unresolved, the issue should be
referred to the principal, who will make the
final decision on any parental concern.
5. To assist students in achieving and maintaining a
healthy lifestyle by promoting a balance among
spiritual, academic, athletic and personal goals.

Parents
1. To exhibit positive Christ-like behavior by positively
supporting and encouraging teams.
2. To respect decisions made by officials and coaches.
3. To refrain from attempting to coach student athletes
from the stands as to not undermine the coaches
position of authority.
4. To utilize the following protocol to address concerns
or issues with a coach:
o Encourage your son or daughter to approach
the coach.
o If the issue remains unresolved approach the
coach yourself during the school day, away
from the practice or game sites.
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook P-38 Bell Schedule

Bell Schedules
Schedule 1 Schedule 2
8:20 Warning Bell 8:20
8:23 Start 1st Block 8:23
9:26 Prayer 9:21
nd
9:32 2 Block 9:27
10:35 Start Recess 10:25
10:46 Warning Bell 10:36
10:49 Start 3rd Block 10:39
11:52 Start Lunch 11:37
12:28 Warning Bell 12:13
th
12:31 Start 4 Block 12:16
th
1:34 End 4 Block 1:14
1:37 Start 5th Block 1:17
2:40 Prayer 2:15
Saint Thomas More Collegiate Handbook P-39 Floor Plan